Health leaders say clinicians care passionately about their patients

Ahead of this weekend’s planned industrial action by junior doctors, health leaders across Suffolk and north east Essex say clinicians have one view that unites them all – they passionately care about their patients.

The latest round of strike action is due to start at 7am on Friday until 7am on Tuesday (15 August).

It’s part of the ongoing dispute between the Government and the British Medical Association (BMA) over pay and conditions.

Dr Andrew Kelso is the Medical Director at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board.

He said: “I want all of our colleagues to know that we care about them all and respect their views.

“Whether they are on the picket line this weekend or at work, their action is to ultimately provide the best care to their patients.

“I want to ensure we have a smooth passage through next weekend’s industrial action, not only from an operational clinical perspective but to also ensure all of our system staff are well supported.

“Many of our colleagues also feel exhausted not only because this is a busy time of the year but also because there has been no respite during the past four summers because of the pandemic.

“I would urge all of our clinicians and our hard working staff who are doing much of the planning behind the scenes to continue to support each other.”

Once again, clinicians are reminding local people and holidaymakers to choose services appropriately during industrial action and take simple steps to help ensure care is available to patients who need it most.

This includes using 111 online as the first port of call for health needs, and only using 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency.

If we have not contacted you, please attend your appointment as planned.

The NHS will contact you if your appointment needs to be rescheduled due to strike action.

GP practices will continue to be open during the junior doctors strike.

Please continue to attend your GP and dental appointments, unless you are contacted and told otherwise.

If you need medical help or advice, or you are unsure about whether you should go to hospital, go to NHS 111 online unless it is a life-threatening emergency when you should still call 999. 

For more information on when to call 999 and when to go to A&E, you can visit the NHS UK website.

The NHS is also asking the public to play their part by taking simple steps during industrial action to look after themselves, loved ones and checking in on vulnerable family members and neighbours.