A health trust in Teesside has offered advice and support to its community as it prepares for several days of industrial action.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced that junior doctors will take part in five days of industrial action from 7am Thursday 13 July until 7am Tuesday 18 July 2023.
In light of this, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has said anyone using frontline services should expect delays and disruption.
Esther Mireku, the Trust’s consultant in public health, said: “We have plans in place to prioritise our urgent and emergency care services so that those who need our care will always receive it.
“But we also want to let our communities know that there are other services available should you not need emergency treatment.
“For urgent health needs, we advise people to use the NHS 111 service – either online or by phone – and you will be supported about the most appropriate steps to take.
“There is also lots of advice and support you can receive from your local pharmacist for minor injuries and illnesses like cuts and grazes, colds, coughs and the effects of adverse weather.
“And of course we also want to assure patients visiting us for an outpatient appointment to please attend your appointment as normal.
“I want to thank our public for their ongoing support.”
People are reminded for urgent health needs, which are not life-threatening, to contact NHS 111 by visiting www.111.nhs.uk or phone 111, 24 hours a day.
A symptom checker can be used to assess symptoms and it will re-direct to a health professional if people need to be seen by someone. Also, self-care advice is available on-line from the NHS at www.nhs.uk
