Is it an emergency?
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in Ipswich and East Suffolk News, North East Essex News, West Suffolk News
The Medical Director at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex has urged people to attend their appointment if they have one booked during the coming days of industrial action.
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.
In a recorded message to local people, Dr Andrew Kelso 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.
Commenting on the situation, Dr Kelso said: “Unless people are contacted by their health service provider they should carry on as planned and attend their appointment. Staff will be doing their very best to honour those appointments.
“We have to be realistic though that this strike action will affect patients and that some appointments will be postponed or re-scheduled. During this time the priority will be on ensuring those most in need of care are able to receive it.
“Hospital emergency departments will be open and I cannot stress enough how important it is for people with life-threatening conditions to come forward as usual.
“I also 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.
“This is an incredibly challenging time for the NHS, with COVID still very much with us and winter health conditions adding to our already stretched services.
“Please do your bit and help the NHS over the coming days.”