Date published: 18 September 2023
'Significant disruption' to services can be expected by the general public for the first ever joint strike action by junior doctors and consultants.
The 96 hours of industrial action begins with consultants striking from 7am on Tuesday 19 September to 7am on Thursday 21 September and junior doctors striking from 7am on Wednesday 20 September to 7am on Saturday 23 September. Both groups will be taking industrial action together on Wednesday 20 September.
Dr Fiona Lemmens, Deputy Medical Director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside said: “We're now entering the tenth month of industrial action across the NHS and staff continue to work hard to provide patients with the best possible care under the circumstances.
“The NHS has tried and tested plans in place to mitigate risks to patient safety and manage the disruption caused by industrial action, but these strikes will lead to significant service disruption, especially with the consultants and junior doctors striking together on Wednesday."
The public are being urged to use NHS 111 Online for non-emergency healthcare needs. The online service works the same as over the phone and is already popular with people who want quick advice about the best options for getting the care they need. These can include a call back from a trained clinician or nurse, an appointment in A&E or important advice.
The NHS will continue to deliver planned care where possible, especially for patients in greatest clinical need, and is urging the public to attend any planned appointments unless contacted directly by the NHS to reschedule.
Mersey Care will be using their our website and social media channels to provide up to date information about our service disruption – so please check before you travel.
NHS 111 Online can tell you:
- Where to get help for your symptoms
- How to find general health information and advice
- Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
- How to get a repeat prescription
- How to get an emergency dental appointment
More information about when to call 999 and when to go to A&E is available via the national NHS website.
