JUNIOR doctor strikes are set to ‘significantly’ impact health services across Worcestershire say local NHS services.
The strike is set to impact healthcare across Herefordshire and Worcestershire from June 27 to July 2.
NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Will Taylor said: “We are working closely with our partners to make sure patients can access the care they need, in a safe environment, during industrial action.”
Healthcare leaders across the two counties are asking local people to think carefully about the services they use during the period and to be proactive to avoid preventable illness to ensure emergency services are there for those who need them.
Dr Julian Berlet, acting joint chief medical officer, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said: “With strikes taking place for a five-day period, we are expecting services to be under increased pressure.
“Our Emergency Department team will be working exceptionally hard prioritising patients with life or limb threatening injury and illness to provide lifesaving care for those patients in the greatest need.
“Patients whose condition is less serious may be asked to seek treatment elsewhere or face an extremely long wait.”
If your condition is less serious you are advised to call use NHS’ free 111 service over the phone or online.
Dr Emma Wale Associate Chief Medical Officer at Wye Valley NHS Trust, said: “We’re doing all we can to ensure we provide safe services during the industrial action this week.
“We’re expecting it to be very busy and are appealing for people to help us by choosing wisely and only visiting our Emergency Department if they are seriously sick.
“There are alternatives and we’d urge people to consider these.”
Patients with scheduled appointments are advised to attend as normal. They will be contacted directly if an appointment needs to be rearranged.
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for your care needs. Always call 999 in an emergency.
