A fresh round of strikes by resident doctors is expected to affect hospital services across the Bath area from next week, with disruption likely to routine appointments and planned treatment.
Photo © RUH Bath
The industrial action is due to begin at 7am on Tuesday 7th April and continue until 6.59am on Monday 13th April.
It will involve resident doctors working at hospitals including the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Great Western Hospital in Swindon and Salisbury District Hospital.
Health leaders have warned that the walkout is likely to have a significant impact on outpatient appointments, pre-planned operations and day surgery cases.
Other NHS staff, including consultants and specialist doctors, will remain at work during the strike period, with services prioritised to protect urgent and emergency care.
To help teams focus on the most seriously unwell patients, people are being urged to think carefully before attending hospital and to use the most appropriate service for their needs.
Dr Barry Coakley, GP and deputy chief medical officer for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “We have well-established plans in place to ensure care remains available for those who need it most during industrial action, with patient and staff safety our top priority.
“Some non-urgent appointments and procedures may be postponed and anyone affected will be contacted directly.
“People with pre-planned appointments should continue to attend unless told otherwise.
“We’re asking local communities to help by choosing the most appropriate care option so hospital services can focus on those most in need.
“For many minor conditions this will be self-care, NHS 111 online or a community pharmacy.
“Anyone who needs urgent or emergency care should continue to come forward without delay.”
GP surgeries will stay open as normal during the strike, although patients are being warned that practices may be busier than usual as they deal with more same-day urgent cases.
People needing help with minor illnesses, injuries or prescriptions are being encouraged to use community pharmacies or NHS 111 online, which can provide advice, simple diagnoses and referrals to face-to-face care where needed.
Those with serious or life-threatening conditions, including severe chest pain, heavy bleeding or loss of consciousness, are being told not to delay seeking help and should still attend the nearest emergency department or call 999.
