Doctors Industrial Action - 3 - 8 January 2024
Industrial action is set to take place from 7am on Wednesday 3 January 2024 to 7am on Tuesday 9 January 2024.
South west London’s medical director Dr John Byrne again urges people to use health services wisely by continuing to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency and going to NHS 111 online for all non-urgent health needs.
Dr Byrne said: “Please look after yourselves, check on vulnerable friends and relatives and if you do need us, think about the most appropriate service to use".
He also reminded south west Londoners that pharmacies and GPs are largely unaffected by the strikes, so patients can still get appointments and health advice.
Dr Byrne said: “With the NHS expected to be very busy after the festive period and this planned strike being longer than previous ones, the health service faces significant challenges.
“So, please look after yourselves, check on vulnerable friends and relatives and if you do need us, think about the most appropriate service to use.
“During strike action, emergency care will be prioritised so it is important that people know that if they need urgent medical care to continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases.
“However, if it is non-life threatening, please think about the right service for your needs. If you need medical help or advice, you should go to 111.nhs.uk and you will be directed to the most appropriate service, which could include your local pharmacy or GP.
It is important that people know that if they need urgent medical care to continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases. However, if it is non-life threatening, please think about the right service for your needs. If you need medical help or advice, you should go to 111.nhs.uk
NHS South West London medical director Dr John Byrne
“While NHS staff have worked incredibly hard to keep key services running, the reality is that despite their efforts to minimise the disruption – and worries that come with that – patients may unfortunately face postponements to their treatment.
“Appointments will only be rescheduled where necessary and the NHS will contact you if this is the case. If you miss an appointment, please re-book and come forward for the care you need.”
The free NHS app can be used to order repeat prescriptions and to choose a pharmacy for them to be delivered to.
The app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, can be accessed by anyone aged 13 and over registered with an NHS GP surgery. People can also check symptoms or treatments and get advice on what to do next, among many other things
If you need urgent health care:
- If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 999.
- If you are told to go to hospital, you must go. The NHS will help you get the care you need.
If you need urgent mental health care:
- For Kingston, Richmond, Merton, Sutton or Wandsworth ring the 24/7 crisis line at South West London and St George’s on 0800 028 8000.
- More about the crisis line
If you need advice from a pharmacist:
- For minor medical problems, some local pharmacies will be open and are able to help this weekend – although their opening times may be different.
Search for a pharmacy at nhs.uk
If you think you need urgent dental treatment:
- Call your dentist. If you cannot contact your dentist, or you do not have one, use the NHS 111 online service or call if you cannot get online.
- If an appointment is necessary, this will be arranged at an urgent dental care centre.
If you think you need advice from a GP:
- GP services are available – contact your practice online or by phone to check.
- If your practice is not open but an appointment is necessary, use the NHS 111 online service or call if you cannot get online.
