Health leaders in Greater Manchester are urging members of the public to use NHS 111 Online for all non-emergency healthcare needs as strike action in the NHS returns next week in the run up to Christmas.
This round of action will see hospital-based junior doctors and GPs in training strike over three days from 7am on Wednesday 20 December to 7am on Saturday 23 December. This will be followed by a second strike over six days from 7am on Wednesday 3 January until 7am on Tuesday 9 January.
Patients with appointments at hospitals and GP practices are asked to attend these as planned unless they are told otherwise. If you have not been contacted, please attend your appointment as planned.
Mr Dilraj Sandher, executive medical director for Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust on behalf of NHS acute medical directors in Greater Manchester, said:
“Whilst respecting colleagues’ right to strike, we regret the severe disruption industrial action will cause to the public at a time when demand for NHS services is expected to be significantly higher and many staff are on pre-arranged leave for Christmas and New Year. We are working hard as a network of health and care providers to minimise disruption wherever we possibly can.
“It’s important that the public do access care if they need it during the strikes and over the festive period, making use of local urgent eye and dental services, pharmacies, and mental health helplines. NHS 111 online can quickly advise you where to go and what to do next and can help with urgent health advice on days of strike action.
“Some people with appointments during this time may be contacted to rearrange them. Those patients will hear from hospitals or GP practices directly, so unless people hear otherwise, they should come to appointments as planned.
“Please remember, if you are unwell and need to contact your GP practice, it will be open but will very likely be busier than usual. You should also make sure to order your repeat prescriptions as soon as possible, if they are due.”
