Herts: Health services disrupted as junior doctors strike

Junior doctors who are members of the British Medical Association union will strike until 7am on Tuesday (July 2).

Dr Jane Halpin, chief executive of the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board, said: "This strike action will present many challenges for patients, carers, our hospitals, and some of our GP practices too.

"With many doctors expected to be on strike, hospitals will not be able to run as normal and services will be working under immense pressure.

“Even with the careful planning that is taking place, both routine and emergency care are likely to be significantly affected.

"To prioritise life-saving emergency treatment, hospitals may have to postpone some non-urgent operations, treatments and routine appointments. Anyone whose treatment is going to be cancelled will be contacted directly.

"During the last strikes, some people came to A&E with symptoms that should have been seen and treated elsewhere. If you come to A&E with a minor condition or illness during the strike, you are likely to face a very long wait and may be sent away to an alternative service.

"A&E is always there for people with serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies, like heart attacks, strokes or breathing difficulties, so in a genuine medical emergency call 999.

"There are many sources of advice about when to call 999, including on the NHS website. If you call 999 for an ambulance when you don’t need one, you could endanger the life of another person.

"NHS 111 is there 24 hours a day if you or a family member are unwell and need urgent medical help or advice on where to go.

"We have more staff in the NHS 111 service to cover this challenging week, so please use 111 online or by phone if you cannot manage symptoms yourself at home. 

"Don’t forget the mental health support on offer via NHS 111 – by choosing option 2 when you get through.

"Thank you for your understanding and support at this challenging time."