PEOPLE in Shropshire are being warned to expect disruption into and beyond the August Bank Holiday as consultants take more industrial action.

Consultant doctors who are members of the British Medical Association (BMA) are set to take industrial action for 48 hours from 7am on Thursday, August 24, until 7am on Saturday, August 26.

Consultants will still provide staffing levels to cover emergency care.

Dr Nick White, chief medical officer for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said the NHS will need patients to make the right decision over what service they use during the strikes.

“This 48-hour strike action is just before a busy bank holiday which means NHS services will have very little time to recover from the disruption,” he said.

“We will continue to prioritise emergency care, but we really need the public’s support again to be able to provide high-quality NHS care to our communities, patients, families, and carers.

“Residents across the county are urged to “think which service” to help to make sure everyone in the community gets the right help at the right time.

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“The public should only attend A&E or call 999 in an emergency, as services will be facing significant pressures from Thursday to Monday. 

“If you can, try using 111 online as your first point of call, and use community pharmacies and minor injury units in Bridgnorth, Oswestry, Ludlow and Whitchurch where appropriate.

“The safety of our patients and staff remains our top priority and we would like to thank the public for their ongoing support and understanding.”

If you have an appointment, please continue to come forward for the care you need – patients will be contacted directly if appointments needs to be rearranged.

He added: “No one should be put off seeking urgent or emergency care during the strikes and people with serious, life-threatening conditions will continue to be seen at our A&E departments.

However, please keep 999 and A&E clear for genuine life-threatening emergencies, and use NHS 111 online or by phone for other urgent care needs or if you’re unsure about whether you should go to hospital. If you are contacting 111, please give as much information as you can, as that will help you get the right support and advice.