NHS Nottinghamshire chief warns of disruption during New Year junior doctors strikes

The NHS is warning the public of severe disruption to services in the coming days.

Junior doctors are taking part in a second round of industrial action from 7am on Wednesday (January 3), until 7am next Tuesday (January 9).

This period of action is set to cause severe delays to NHS services as January is already a difficult time for the NHS due to winter pressures.

The last action taken by junior doctors saw over 86,000 inpatient and outpatient appointments rescheduled nationally during the three-day strike.

Similarly, the upcoming strike is due to impact hospitals across Nottinghamshire, mental health services, GP practices and other NHS services.

Due to the reduction in staff across the system, planned surgery and outpatient appointments may be affected.

The NHS will contact patients if an appointment needs to be rescheduled — if patients have not been contacted, they are asked to please attend appointments as planned.

Dr Dave Briggs, medical director at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “I would like to thank the public and staff for their support over the Christmas period, this has not been an easy time for the NHS.

“As we head into the next round of industrial action, I would like to remind everyone that this will cause severe disruption and you can help by only going to A&E or calling 999 if it is a life-threatening illness. Please use alternative services where possible, including 111 online, pharmacies or urgent treatment centres.

“By choosing the right service, you will be freeing up staff and vital hospital beds for those that need them the most. If you are in doubt about which service you should use, contact 111 online and they will inform you of the best place to go.”