Further NHS strike action ahead
From Monday 2 October 2023 Junior Doctors and Consultants as well as hospital dental trainees will be taking four consecutive days of strike action ending on 7am Thursday 5 October.
Some radiographers will be taking strike action for 24 hours, from 8am on Tuesday 3 October to 8am on Wednesday 4 October.
This will have a severe impact on services and be upsetting for people who are having appointments delayed. You will be contacted if your appointment is postponed. The public are reminded that they should only attend accident and emergency departments if they need treatment for a very serious illness or injury.
If you need urgent health help, use NHS 111 online (www.111.nhs.uk) or call 111. Your symptoms will be assessed, and you will be provided with healthcare advice or an appointment to see a doctor or nurse if this is needed. NHS 111 can also send an ambulance and can book an appointment for you in some services like urgent treatment centres.
GP surgeries are less directly affected by industrial action. However, we expect them to be busier than usual as a result – so only call if it is really essential and consider filling out an online consultation on your practice website if you can wait.
Feeling a bit under the weather? The NHS website has lots of advice to help you to look after yourself when you have minor symptoms. There is also information about what is a serious medical emergency: When to call 999 - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Pharmacies are experts in medicines and treatment for minor conditions. You can find a list of pharmacies open out of hours by visiting www.nhs.uk and using the ‘Find a Pharmacy’ tool.
Information on these services and self-help advice can be found at: https://hertsandwestessexics.org.uk/help-us-help
