South west Londoners are being reminded that the NHS remains there for them ahead of a planned 96-hour strike by junior doctors.
Dr John Byrne, South West London’s medical director, said patients will continue to get emergency care when they need it even though the NHS remains very busy.
He advised people needing medical help or advice to visit 111.nhs.uk first unless it is a life-threatening emergency, in which case they need to call 999.
Pharmacies and GPs are largely unaffected by the strikes, Dr Byrne said, so patients can still get appointments and health advice.
With the strike expected to start on Friday (11 August) Dr Byrne said it is important that people use emergency services appropriately to ensure care is available to patients who need it most.
Dr Byrne said: “The NHS is again working hard to ensure those in greatest need continue to have access to high quality care and support but we ask for your help too – please look after yourselves and check on vulnerable relatives and friends.
“On strike days, emergency treatment will be prioritised. It is really important that patients who need urgent medical care come as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases when they should call 999.
“If you need medical help or advice, or you are unsure about whether you should go to hospital, go to 111.nhs.uk first as this service can quickly advise you where to go and what to do next.
Unfortunately, there is no getting away from the fact that the NHS will be impacted by this strike and while staff are working incredibly hard to keep disruption and the worries that come with it to a minimum, patients may face postponements to their treatment.
“Appointments will only be rescheduled where necessary and the NHS will contact you if this is the case. If you miss an appointment, please re-book and come forward for the care you need.”
Junior doctors are set to strike from 7am on Friday 11 August to 7am on Tuesday 15 August.