Doctors' strike: NHS issues advice to Lancashire patients about what they need to do
Lancashire residents are being urged to use health services “wisely” during the latest round of industrial action to hit the NHS - and have also been given advice about any appointments they may have during the strike period.
Resident doctors - formerly known as junior doctors - began a five-day walkout on Friday morning which will continue until 7am next Wednesday (19th November).
The NHS in the North West has stressed that emergency services remain operational, but has warned that routine appointments could be subject to "significant disruption”.
Nevertheless, the advice is for patients to attend any appointments they have during the stoppage unless they are told otherwise - with cancellations only planned if they are “absolutely necessary”.
The strike action is part of a long-running dispute by resident doctors over pay.
During the walkout, all other NHS staff - including consultants and other specialist doctors - will still be working.
Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, said: “The NHS is heading into its busiest time of the year, and this period of industrial action will create additional challenges for us.
“During this time, it is vital that the public continue to come forward for care and know how they can access our services when needed.
“It’s important that people use NHS 111 online (111.nhs.uk) as their first port of call for all non-urgent health needs, as well as use their local GP practice and community pharmacies as usual.
“Urgent and emergency care services remain open during the industrial action period and people should call 999 or attend the accident and emergency department in the event of a life or limb threatening emergency.
“I would urge people to please attend your [routine] appointment as planned. The NHS will contact you if your appointment needs to be rescheduled due to strike action.
“I’d like to thank the public for their continued support and our NHS staff who are going above and beyond to maintain safe patient services during this challenging period.”
The NHS in the North West is already seeing a high number of people in hospital with Covid and winter illnesses such as flu - and the public is being urged to protect themselves and their families by getting vaccinated. Eligibility for free vaccines can be checked - and appointments booked - on the NHS website.