As resident doctors prepare to strike, south west Londoners are being reminded that the NHS is still there for them if they need it.
The British Medical Association has confirmed that resident doctors plan to take strike action from 7am on Wednesday 17 December to 7am on Monday 22 December.
It comes as the NHS is managing the busy winter period. Flu cases are surging as the NHS enters its busiest time of the year.
South west London’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Nicola Jones has urged people to use health services wisely by continuing to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.
Please look after yourselves, check on vulnerable friends and relatives and if you do need us, think about the most appropriate service to use.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Nicola Jones
Dr Jones advised south west Londoners that their GP surgery will be open as usual so patients can still get appointments and health advice. Dr Jones added that pharmacies will also be open and ready to provide medical attention needed for minor illnesses and NHS 111 online is also available for all non-urgent health needs.
Dr Jones said: “The NHS remains very busy and this planned strike will create significant challenges for the health service, especially with flu cases surging.
“Please look after yourselves, check on vulnerable friends and relatives and if you do need us, think about the most appropriate service to use.
“During strike action, emergency care will be prioritised so it is important that people know that if they need urgent medical care to continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases.
“However, if your health issue is non-life threatening, please think about the right service for your needs. If you need medical help or advice, GPs and pharmacies are still available during the strike.
“You should also use 111.nhs.uk and you will be directed to the most appropriate service, which could include your local pharmacy or GP.
“While NHS staff have worked incredibly hard to keep key services running, the reality is that despite their efforts to minimise the disruption – and the worries that come with that – patients may unfortunately face postponements to their treatment.
“Appointments will only be rescheduled where necessary and the NHS will contact you if this is the case. If you miss an appointment, please re-book and come forward for the care you need.”
The free NHS app can be used to order repeat prescriptions and to choose a pharmacy for them to be delivered to.
The app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, can be accessed by anyone aged 13 and over registered with an NHS GP surgery. People can also check symptoms or treatments and get advice on what to do next, among many other things.