“Think which service” during the upcoming industrial action

The Chief Medical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin has urged people to attend their appointment if they have one booked during the coming days of industrial action and to ‘think which service’ before action when deciding on which service is right for their healthcare needs.

The British Medical Association (BMA), the Hospital Consultants and Specialists Association (HCSA) and the British Dental Association (BDA) unions have all announced strike action, along with junior doctors, dental core trainees and specialty registrars, running continuously for 72 hours from 7.00 a.m. on Monday 13 March to 7.00 a.m. on Thursday 16 March.

It is to do with the unions’ ongoing dispute with the government over the pay and conditions of their members.

Dr Nick White, the Chief Medical Officer for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin has offered reassurance that NHS health care services will remain open including hospital emergency departments, GP practices, mental health services and community services, although highlights that some delay and disruption is inevitable.

Dr White, comments: “Patient safety is our top priority. We would like to reassure local people that we are working together across the NHS to try and minimise the disruption to the public.

“Unless people are contacted by their health service provider they should carry on as planned and attend their appointment. Staff will do their very best to honour appointments.

“However, we have to be realistic, and some appointments will be postponed or re-scheduled. During this time the priority will be to ensure those most in need of care are able to receive it.

“A&E departments will be open, and I cannot stress enough how important it is for people with life-threatening conditions to come forward as usual. However, there are a range of other services available – such as NHS 111 online, minor injury units, and community pharmacies.

“I would urge people to use the best service for their needs. If you are feeling unwell, please consider visiting your local pharmacy. Pharmacists are highly trained medical professionals who can offer help and advice with no need for an appointment, and the NHS 111 service is available by ‘phone or online 24/7.”

For more information on the industrial action visit: Industrial action update – NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin (shropshiretelfordandwrekin.nhs.uk)

To find out more about which service to use, people can visit www.thinkwhichservice.co.uk online and follow the campaign on social media using #ThinkWhichService.