System’s medical director thanks local people for continued support

Health and care leaders across Suffolk and north east Essex are thanking local people for their continued support in using services wisely during this period of high demand and industrial action.

Clinicians say they would strongly appreciate this support to continue as the junior doctors’ strike comes to an end, but the two-day action by senior consultants starts from Thursday (20 July).

This is followed by further action which will take place from 8am on July 25 for 48 hours involving radiographers.

The disputes are part of the ongoing row between the government and unions over pay and conditions.

Dr Andrew Kelso, Medical Director at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex, said: “Our system is always appreciative of the support it receives from local people and patients and I would like to thank local people for their continued support in using services wisely.

“We will be shortly launching our summer campaign which encourages people to use the right service for their health needs.

“It highlights how anyone feeling physically unwell and not sure what to do can call NHS 111 or visit NHS 111 online for urgent help and advice, and anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call NHS 111 and choose option 2, anytime of the day or night.

“Across Suffolk and north east Essex we are fortunate enough to have almost 200 community pharmacies which are great sources of general health advice and treatment including common summer health issues like sunburn, hay fever, insect bites and stings, cuts, grazes and stomach upsets.”

You can find your local pharmacy here via the NHS website.

Please visit www.sneewellbeing.org.uk for advice on staying well.