This in from the IW NHS, in their own words. Ed
Plans are being put in place to ensure minimal impact on patient care, in the event that industrial action by junior doctors goes ahead next week.
The action is planned for:
- 12 January 2016: Emergency care only between 8am on Tuesday, 12 January and 8am on Wednesday, 13 January (24 hours)
- 26 January 2016: Emergency care only between 8am on Tuesday, 26 January and 8am on Thursday, 28 January (48 hours)
- 10 February 2016: Full withdrawal of labour between 8am and 5pm on Wednesday, 10 February.
Robust contingency plans in place
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust is putting in place robust contingency plans, despite ongoing conciliatory talks between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the Department of Health aimed at preventing strike action.
The Trust would like to reassure residents that emergency care will not be affected by the industrial action, and we hope that there will be minimal impact across all other aspects of our service. With the support of our staff we are hoping that no planned (elective) operations will need be rescheduled but patients will be contacted individually if it becomes necessary.
Clinics will run as normal
All clinics will also still run as normal, although some may have a reduced number of patients. This is to ensure that there is enough flexibility in the system so that staff can cover any emergency cases.
All other patients should attend their appointments as scheduled, unless they have been informed otherwise by a member of Trust staff.
Tried and tested plans in place
Dr Mark Pugh, the Trust’s Executive Medical Director, said:
“We have tried and tested plans in place to deal with a range of disruptions, including industrial action. Our highest priority is to ensure the safety of our patients, regardless of industrial action, and robust plans are now in place to enable services to run as smoothly as possible.
“We will continue to regularly monitor the situation and liaise with our junior doctors.”
Advice from NHS
Despite being well prepared for the forthcoming industrial action, Island residents can also help to reduce the pressure on the NHS by following this advice:
- People should protect themselves by planning ahead and finding out in advance what to do if they need medical help, particularly those in vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children and people with long-term conditions.
- Patients on regular medication should ensure that they have sufficient supplies and collect medicines in good time.
- If you need medical help or advice, choose the right service for your needs – NHS 111 and NHS Choices website provide information on the range of healthcare services available.
- Call NHS 111 if you urgently need medical help or advice but it’s not a life-threatening situation
- Your local pharmacist can give you advice on many common minor illnesses.
- Make an appointment with your GP if you are feeling unwell and it is not an emergency
- Only call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk
- Our ‘Stay Well this Winter’ campaign provides useful information and advice on how to look after yourself and others during this time of year. If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccination and haven’t already availed yourself of this then please make an appointment with your GP or Pharmacy. Protect yourself and protect others!
Image: garryknight under CC BY 2.0
