The strike ended at 7am yesterday, and led to the postponement of nearly 800 outpatients appointments and 63 elective treatments and procedures at SDHB In a statement yesterday Mr Fleming said medical and support staff had risen to the challenge.
"I admire the professionalism with which our teams went about providing healthcare services in less than ideal circumstances.
"I’d also like to commend our colleagues in primary care, St John ambulance and other allied health agencies who continued to provide services and support the DHB during the strike period."
Work was under way to reschedule postponed appointments and procedures.
"Despite a challenging start to the new year, I believe ... the Southern DHB will continue to make strong progress with our Southern Future programme and its aim of improving healthcare services for communities throughout Otago and Southland," Mr Fleming said.
