Leicestershire NHS asks patients to turn up to appointments during junior doctors’ strike

“Even if services are busy and you need medical help, the NHS is here for you so don’t delay coming forward".

The NHS in Leicestershire has issued advice on what services to use over the Christmas period and during the junior doctors' strike.

The junior doctors' strike started today (20 December) and is due to end at 7 am on Saturday 23 December.

There is expected to be six days of industrial action in January from 7 am on Wednesday 3 January to 7 am on Tuesday 9 January.

During this time the NHS say it is important patients attend any appointments unless they have been told there has been a cancellation.

Dr Nil Sanganee, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland said: “Getting in the know about how to use NHS services is particularly important at this time of year when services tend to be busier, but even more so this year with the additional impact of the Junior Doctors’ strikes. Much of our advice applies all year round but it is really important that you remind yourself now about the services to use and avoid putting the NHS under any unnecessary pressure by enjoying the festive period safely, limiting the spread of any illnesses and managing any existing health conditions well.

“Even if services are busy and you need medical help, the NHS is here for you so don’t delay coming forward, or the problem could become more serious. Continue to attend any planned medical appointments. If an appointment needs to be rescheduled during strike days, the NHS will let you know.”