Junior doctors take part in third strike of the year
Junior doctors across England, including those in Shropshire, are taking part in their third strike of the year this week.
The 48-hour walk-out is in opposition to new contracts they fear will put patients at risk.
This latest action comes after ministers announced that the Government would impose a disputed new contract on junior doctors.
Industrial action by junior doctors will take place for 48 hours, from 8am today until 8am Friday March 11. During this time, junior doctors will provide cover for emergencies only.
Simon Wright, Chief Executive of The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), said: “As with previous periods of industrial action, we are working with colleagues across the Trust in order minimise the impact of this week’s industrial action on our patients and staff.
“We recognise that this is not an easy time. Our Junior Doctors continue to be very supportive of our organisation even through this difficult time and we continue to be extremely grateful to them and for the support from our Consultant body and our wider clinical teams for their work in ensuring our hospitals remain safe during periods of industrial action.
“This latest period of industrial action is longer than those we have seen previously and we would strongly encourage people to make sure they are prepared for any disruption this may cause.
“Make sure that if you take medication regularly, or have recently been prescribed medication, that you have collected your prescription from the GP in plenty of time and have been to the pharmacist to collect it so that you have it to hand.
“If you feel unwell contact your GP or pharmacist, or contact NHS111 for advice. Additionally the Stay Well website at http://www.nhs.uk/staywell/ contains advice on the best services for you or your family.
“Pharmacists are experts in medicines and will use their clinical expertise to advise you on common problems such as coughs, colds, aches and pains. They can also help you decide whether you need to see a health professional and help you consider the alternatives next time you are thinking of making a doctor's appointment.
“As with previous industrial action, we are looking at our planned activity, given that our priority must be our emergency service. We have previously managed to minimise the impact in terms of planned procedures that have been cancelled and we will be looking to do the same again with the help of our clinical teams.
“However, we know that any disruption can be inconvenient and have again taken steps to ensure that any patient affected are notified in good time and apologise for any inconvenience this might cause. Unless you have been contacted in advance, please assume that your appointment is going ahead as planned.”
