Patients across Bedfordshire are being urged to help preserve NHS resources for those who need them most, as resident doctors prepare to stage another national strike this week.
The walkout by resident doctors begins at 7am on Friday (25 July) and is due to continue until 7am on Wednesday (30 July).
Local NHS leaders have warned that hospitals will again have to prioritise urgent and emergency care, maternity services and ward-based care during the strike period.
This means that some non-urgent operations, treatments, and routine appointments are likely to be postponed, with affected patients being contacted directly.
Dr Andrew Rochford, chief medical officer at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said the coming days will be “extremely busy” for NHS services, particularly in A&E departments.
He said: “We are encouraging local people to think carefully before using NHS services during the forthcoming strike. Please help us to focus our attention on those who most need it.
“You should only attend an accident and emergency department if you require emergency, life-saving care. Anybody needing non-urgent care should contact 111 Online in the first instance at 111.nhs.uk, or seek advice from a local pharmacist who is very well placed to offer help.”
Dr Rochford also advised patients to ensure they order any repeat prescriptions in good time and consider stocking up on basic over-the-counter medicines for minor ailments.
Hospitals across the region are expected to operate differently during the strike, with reduced staffing and longer waiting times. Many GP practices and pharmacies will continue to operate as usual, though some practices that train future GPs could be affected.
Top tips during the strike:
- Use NHS 111 Online (111.nhs.uk) or call 111 for urgent, non-emergency health needs.
- If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call 111 and select option 2 for direct help.
- Don’t attend A&E unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
- Order repeat prescriptions as soon as possible, including via the NHS App.
- Stock up on basic pharmacy supplies, such as painkillers, plasters, antiseptics, and allergy medicine.
Dr Rochford added, “Previous NHS strikes have seen many hospital appointments postponed, and we again expect to see significant disruption. Please help us keep emergency care available for those who really need it.”
Further advice and pharmacy locations can be found at www.nhs.uk.
