Dorset NHS working together to keep people safe during planned industrial action
NHS Dorset is asking the public to choose the right services for their needs as the local health and care system continues to face significant pressure from increased demand and planned strike activity.
Dorset is one of a number of areas affected by planned industrial action on 13, 14 and 15 March 2023.
NHS Dorset’s Chief Operating Officer, Dean Spencer, said: “Our top priority is to make sure people in Dorset are safe and well. With this in mind, some of our hospitals have made the difficult decision to postpone a number of appointments and some surgeries over the strike period.
“No one should put off seeking urgent or emergency care, regardless of strike action, and people with serious, life-threatening conditions will continue to be seen at our emergency departments.
“Our health and care services are under significant pressure, so I am asking the people of Dorset to help us by choosing the right service for your needs when you need them.”
Dr Harry Adlington, clinical director for urgent and emergency care at University Hospitals Dorset, added: “Junior doctors across the country are going on strike for three days. These are frontline, experienced members of staff caring for you every day.
“We will have to work differently in our hospitals during this strike action, and will be prioritising emergency and life preserving care.
“We need the public’s help to keep 999 and A&E clear for genuine life-threatening emergencies. Before attending, please consider any other alternative healthcare providers who might be able to help. Call your GP, pharmacies, and minor injury units. If you need medical help, continue to use NHS 111 online.
“Patient safety is our priority and regrettably, we have had to postpone a number of appointments so our medical teams can support other departments. We will reschedule these as soon as possible and want to thank those affected for their patience and understanding.
“Our staff are doing all they can to support safe and compassionate care at this very difficult time.”
Dr Harry Adlington
Hospital and community NHS services will be making sure they have adequate staffing levels to keep patients safe.
Key information for hospital appointments
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Our focus during this time is to ensure safe care and to prioritise emergency and life preserving care. Regrettably, this means our local hospitals need to postpone a number of appointments and some surgeries as medical teams support other departments.
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Any patients affected will be contacted. Please check your voicemail before attending your appointment, as we may leave a message if we are unable to reach you.
Help us continue to provide care for those who need it most by using the right services at the right time:
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Keep 999 and A&E clear for genuine life-threatening emergencies
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Use NHS 111 online or by phone for other urgent care needs. If you are contacting 111, please give as much information as you can, as that will help you get the right support and advice.
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Contact your GP practice for non-urgent care
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If you need mental health support call Connection on 0800 652 0190. The Connection service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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Visit your local pharmacy - find a pharmacy near you.
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Patient discharge - help us get patients who are ready for discharge home so our hospital beds are available for people who need them most urgently. Most patients will continue to recover at home once they leave hospital. In fact, many patients need to leave hospital to be able to complete their recovery fully.
