Long-running dispute: resident doctors began their six-day strike this morning
The NHS in south London has issued a health safety warning, as thousands of resident doctors start a week-long strike today.
“People needing medical help or advice should go to 111.nhs.uk, their GP or pharmacy unless it is a life-threatening emergency, in which case they must call 999,” the NHS said.
British Medical Association members started industrial action from 7am this morning, and will strike until Monday April 13.
It is the BMA’s 15th strike in a long-running dispute over pay, and comes after pay talks with government broke down last month.
The strike promises to cause significant disruption. Resident doctors (what used to be referred to as junior doctors) make up nearly half of the medical workforce in the NHS.
Consultants are being drafted in to provide cover in accident and emergency departments, while some planned treatments are having to be cancelled.
The NHS is urging patients not to put off seeking help if needed, saying those with emergency and urgent needs should use 999 and 111 as normal.
Those who have appointments and treatments scheduled should attend unless they are told otherwise. GP services are largely unaffected.
‘Significant challenges’: Dr Nicola Jones
Dr Nicola Jones, south-west London’s Chief Medical Officer, has urged people to use health services wisely and to continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency. GP surgeries will be open as usual, so patients can still get appointments and health advice.
Pharmacies will also be open and ready to provide medical attention needed for minor illnesses.
“The NHS remains very busy and this planned strike will create significant challenges for the health service, especially as it comes after the Easter bank holiday weekend,” Dr Jones said.
“Please look after yourselves, check on vulnerable friends and relatives and if you do need us, think about the most appropriate service to use.
“During strike action, emergency care will be prioritised so it is important that people know that if they need urgent medical care to continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases.
“However, if your health issue is non-life threatening, please think about the right service for your needs. If you need medical help or advice, GPs and pharmacies are still available during the strike.
“While NHS staff have worked incredibly hard to keep key services running, the reality is that despite their efforts to minimise the disruption – and the worries that come with that – patients may unfortunately face postponements to their treatment.
“Appointments will only be rescheduled where necessary and the NHS will contact you if this is the case. If you miss an appointment, please re-book and come forward for the care you need.”
The NHS app can be used to order repeat prescriptions and to choose a pharmacy for them to be delivered to. The app, which can be downloaded free of charge from the App Store or Google Play, can be accessed by anyone aged 13 and over who is registered with an NHS GP surgery.
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