Upcoming NHS doctors strike action

NHS Strike action is due to take place in Derbyshire over the next few weeks. It’s important that you know how this may impact you and your loved ones care, and how you can help keep yourself well. The upcoming strikes planned are:

• ‍Junior doctors: Thursday 13 July – Tuesday 18 July
• Consultants: Thursday 20 July – Friday 21 July

How does the NHS plan to keep people safe during strike action?  

When strikes take place the NHS prioritises resources to protect people receiving certain treatments. This includes critical care, neonatal care, and trauma. People are also prioritised depending on how long they’ve waited for elective (planned) care and cancer surgery.

What if I have an appointment booked on a day strike action is taking place?

If you have a medical appointment already booked for when strike action is taking place, you will be contacted if this needs to be rearranged. If you haven’t been contacted then you can attend your appointment as planned.

This strike action does impact GP surgeries. If you have a GP or dental appointment please attend this if you haven’t been told otherwise. You will be contacted if your appointment is no longer going ahead.

What if I need urgent medical help?

The NHS is urging people who still need urgent medical help to continue to come forwards for care. This is very important if you or a loved one is seriously ill or injured, or someone’s life is at risk. If someone is in need of urgent medical attention please call 999 as usual.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call NHS 111 and get straight through to mental health help by selecting option 2. You can also get help in a mental health crisis by calling the Derbyshire Mental Health Helpline and Support Service on 0800 028 0077.

What can I do to help? 

During strike action, it's very important that you choose the right NHS service so care can be given to those who need it the most. Use NHS 111 online as your first option, where you will be directed to the most appropriate place for you. If someone has a life threatening medical need please call 999 as usual.

You can help the NHS by taking extra care to look after yourself and loved ones, and by checking in on vulnerable family members and neighbours.

You can also pickup a few medicines when out and about so you can take care of any minor illnesses or injuries at home. Medications like paracetamol, ibuprofen and allergy medication may be helpful to keep at home. First aid essentials like plasters and antiseptic wipes may also be useful for any minor injuries.

Have you been impacted by strike action? 

Have you or someone you know been impacted by NHS strikes? Maybe your care or treatment been delayed or cancelled? We want to hear from you about how the strikes has impacted your care. Tell us your experiences by visiting our online feedback form, it only takes five minutes.

Further information

You can find out more information about upcoming strike action on Joined Up Care Derbyshire's website here.

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