The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust is urging those who need emergency medical care to still come forward during Junior Doctor industrial action taking place at the end of next week.
Junior Doctors across the country are due to hold action from 7am on Saturday 24 February until 11:59pm on Wednesday 28 February. Plans are in place to ensure all patients continue to receive safe and effective care during this period, however it is important that services are used appropriately.
Patients with appointments planned should attend as normal unless they are contacted directly by the Trust.
Dr Jo Beahan, Medical Director at the Trust, said: “It is really important that anyone who needs urgent or emergency medical attention next week continues to attend our Urgent and Emergency Care Centre. While our junior doctors may be striking, our services remain open for those that need urgent medical attention.
“We have plans in place to ensure patients in our care will continue to receive the treatment they need throughout the period of industrial action.
“Patients with appointments will be contacted directly if we need to rearrange their appointment. If we do not contact you, please attend as planned.
“While our services do remain open, as always it is vital that they are used appropriately. The Urgent and Emergency Care Centre is for those in need of urgent medical care. If anyone is unsure of the best place for them to receive advice, visit www.111.nhs.uk.”
Alternatives to UECC remain available throughout the period of industrial action, and may be better suited to patient needs. Pharmacies and GPs will be open and NHS 111 remains available 24 hours a day.