The public are being urged to be aware of disruption across many NHS services in the coming days with industrial strike action by medical staff taking place.
Strike action by junior doctors will run from 7am on Saturday (24 February) to midnight on Wednesday (28 February) and is set to impact most routine care as the NHS prioritises urgent and emergency services.
During these times there will be fewer staff providing day-to-day medical care in hospitals, some dental services and across some mental health services.
People across South Yorkshire are being reminded to make use of the NHS 111 online service to get advice on treatments or conditions in the first instance unless it is a life-threatening emergency. For children and young people advice and support is also available at https://sybhealthiertogether.nhs.uk/
Dr David Crichton, Chief Medical Officer at NHS South Yorkshire, said: “Our health services in South Yorkshire are already extremely busy and we expect the planned action to further impact on all aspects of NHS services. Therefore, we’re asking people to please choose wisely and consider whether or not they should attend A&E or call 999.
“We are also asking the public to play their part by taking simple steps during industrial action to look after themselves, their loved ones and by checking in on vulnerable family members and neighbours. At a time when we experience high levels of flu and other viruses such as norovirus, it’s especially important to wash your hands and stay warm during these cold winter weeks.
“Over the coming days, the NHS will be prioritising resources to protect emergency treatment, critical care, neonatal care, and trauma. But, it is still really important that people 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.
“If you have scheduled hospital, GP or dental appointments during this time, please attend as planned. You will be contacted if your appointment needs to be cancelled or rescheduled.”
