NHS warns of increase in pressure on Hampshire services ahead of industrial action by British Medical Association members including consultants and junior doctors
THE NHS is warning Hampshire residents of increased pressure on services ahead of large-scale industrial action.
Consultants who are members of the British Medical Association (BMA) will go on strike for 48 hours from 7am tomorrow (Tuesday) while junior doctors will walk out on Wednesday until Saturday – marking the first time in NHS history that the two have overlapped.
They will overlap again during further strike action taking place 2nd-4th October.
On 3rd October, radiographers will also take part in a day of industrial action.
An open letter from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight chief medical and chief nursing officers said: “Our services are currently extremely busy and we expect them to remain busy and under increased pressure during the strikes.
“Our teams are working incredibly hard and they really appreciate the support they continue to receive from the public and our patients during this challenging time.
“Even with the extra pressure that our staff are under, please be reassured they are working hard to keep people safe.”
Residents are advised to only attend emergency departments or call 999 if a condition is life-threatening, such as signs of a heart attack, stroke, heavy bleeding, or difficulty breathing.
However, patients are being urged not to wait until their condition is life or limb-threatening, and those who need urgent medical care should continue to come forward as normal.
In non-emergency situations residents are advised to visit their local pharmacy for minor ailments or medication queries or visit a local Urgent Treatment Centre or their GP.
The open letter adds: “Planned appointments and procedures are likely to be affected and we know how upsetting this will be for people who may have already faced delays to their treatment.
“We apologise for any disruption you may face.”
Anyone in need of urgent care but not sure which service they require should call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk
