Health chiefs have warned there could be further problems with the children’s ward at Moray’s biggest hospital after a staff member resigned.
NHS Grampian has repeatedly warned the recruitment situation at Dr Gray’s in Elgin remains fragile.
Yesterday it was announced that a member of staff leaving the team has resulted in a shake-up of services.
It means Ward Two will only be staffed by nurses overnight to look after children who need to be kept under observation.
However, patients arriving for fresh treatment will be assessed by a consultant paediatrician after four hours to see whether the initial steps have been effective – before being allowed home or transferred to Aberdeen if they need admitted.
Sue Swift, divisional manager for women and children, said: “We said last month that the staffing situation remained vulnerable and, unfortunately, a member of the team has decided to move on.
“As a result, staff from across a range of disciplines have worked together to put in place a new model that will mean we are able to continue to provide an overnight service.
“We are pleased to have identified a solution that means there will be little or no impact on patients and their families. It remains a temporary change and we will closely monitor it over the next few weeks.”
Mrs Swift stressed recruitment efforts continued at the hospital and outpatient clinics would continue as normal. The changes will come into effect on Monday, February 19.
Management at the NHS feared having to temporarily reduce services at Dr Gray’s at the beginning of the month due to concerns about attracting junior doctors.
It followed Ward Two being closed to all overnight stays for nearly two months last year due to staff shortages.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead said: “Thankfully the ward is remaining open round the clock with only more serious cases involving a transfer to Aberdeen. Hopefully, only a small number will be affected.
“Nevertheless, work must continue to find a long term solution to ensure we have a fully resourced service. It’s clear staff are working hard.”
Moray MP Douglas Ross added: “While I’m glad there will still be a 24-hour service, it’s desperately disappointing seriously ill children face the prospect of being transferred to Aberdeen again.
“I know staff are working hard but these constant threats are troubling for staff and patients alike.”
