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University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust

How you can help your local NHS during planned industrial action 

The NHS in Dorset is asking people to choose the right services for their needs as planned industrial action takes place.

Dorset is one of a number of areas affected by planned industrial action by junior doctors between 06:59 on Tuesday 11 April until 06:59 on Saturday 15 April.

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.”

Hospital and community NHS services will be making sure they have adequate staffing levels to keep patients safe.

Key information for hospital appointments;

  • Our priority is to deliver effective and safe care to people, and we are unable to do so without junior doctors who are essential to the daily running of a number of our services.
  • Regrettably, this means that whilst appointments may be going ahead, some hospitals will be postponing the majority along with surgeries in order to maintain the safety of patients.
  • Any patients affected will be contacted directly. 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:
  • Keep 999 and A&E clear for life-threatening emergencies
  • No-one should put off seeking urgent or emergency care during the strikes and people with serious, life-threatening conditions will continue to be seen at our emergency departments.
  • However, please keep 999 and A&E clear for life-threatening emergencies.

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.

For non-urgent care services please contact your GP practice to make an appointment.

Mental Health support

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.

Visit your local pharmacy

Pharmacies can help with allergies, constipation, headaches, earaches and many other ailments.
Find a pharmacy near you.

Patient discharge

Staying in hospital for longer than necessary has a negative impact on how well patients recover. 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.

Help us get patients who are ready for discharge home, so our hospital beds are available for people who need them most urgently.

Please speak to the ward team if you need more information and respond quickly to any calls from us about your relative leaving hospital.

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