NHS SERVICES, including those in Reading, are making preparations for the upcoming industrial action by junior doctors and consultants ahead of a strike planned for next week.
A 72-hour strike is due to start from 7am on Monday, October 2, with significant impact expected on health services in Berkshire and across the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire integrated care system (BOB ICS).
NHS staff are working to protect emergency treatment services and critical care, including neonatal and maternity, as well as those with trauma, or who have waited longest for elective and cancer treatment.
Expected disruption to routine services during the strikes means that some appointments and procedures will require rescheduling, but these will be rebooked immediately.
Patients who have scheduled appointments should attend as planned unless they hear directly from the NHS with details of changes.
People can also use the 111 Online service to find out how best to get treatment, check prescription details, or consult regarding vulnerable family and friends.
GPs should be attended as normal, and patients are reminded that A&E is reserved for emergencies and life-threatening situations.
Dr Nick Broughton, interim Chief Executive of the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board, said: “NHS staff working during the industrial action will be working hard in hospitals, community teams, GP services and pharmacies to keep people safe and respond to their needs.
“NHS staff are working very hard during a very challenging time– please do treat them with respect.
“We appreciate people’s understanding and co-operation during this time.”
He explained: “Emergencies, critical care, maternity, trauma and neonatal care safe staffing will be our absolute priority, but it will involve the NHS working together across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West to ensure we are there for people at their moment of need.
“We are grateful to all our colleagues working during this time to keep services running and patients safe.”
Dr Rachael de Caux, Chief Medical Officer of the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board and consultant in Emergency Medicine said: “It is important that patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases–when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.
“We expect Emergency Departments to be very busy during strike action so please think carefully about choosing the most appropriate NHS Service for your needs and only use 999 and A&E for serious or life threatening emergencies, such as chest pain, severe bleeding or breathing difficulties.
She continued: “NHS 111 online remains the best place to help you get to the part of the NHS that can best respond to your needs.
“There are also minor injury units, urgent treatment centres and community pharmacies open each day if you need help or more urgent attention.
“It may take longer during this period to be seen and treated so we ask you to please be patient.”
More information is available via: 111.nhs.uk
