People are urged to only use accident and emergency departments at Cumbria’s hospitals for life-threatening incidents during the doctors strike, which starts today.
NHS bosses are asking people to only call 999 for an ambulance or attend A&E for life-threatening conditions or injuries only.
The British Medical Association has called for resident doctors working in hospitals to take part in five days of industrial action from 7am today, Friday July 25 until 7am on Wednesday July 30.
Patients are warned to expect some disruption and potential long waits during the strike, and during the following immediate days when patient attendance often peaks.
Resident doctors, formerly known as junior doctors, are taking industrial action over pay.
Doctors were awarded a 5.4% pay increase by the Government, but the British Medical Association said the increases did not account for historical pay freezes.
The association is calling for a rise of 29.2% to bring salaries back in line with 2008 levels.
Dr Neil O’Brien, chief medical officer for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board said: “People can expect long delays and more disruption to NHS services during this latest period of industrial action.
“It is even more challenging to plan for this strike action due to staff summer holiday leave, meaning there are fewer staff available to help cover essential services.
“Emergency and urgent care services will be prioritised during this time, so we really need the public’s help to only call 999 and attend emergency departments if it is a genuine life-threatening injury or illness, as our emergency departments and Urgent Treatment Centres were extremely busy last time.
“For urgent health needs that are not life threatening, please use 111 online or by phone.
“GP practices and local pharmacies will still be open as usual during the industrial action to help with advice and treatments.”
The NHS is also reminding the public to keep their appointments unless they hear otherwise.
Dr O’Brien added: “People will be contacted directly if there are any changes to their planned appointment or surgery, and there is no need to contact the NHS about this.”
The public are reminded for urgent health needs, which are not life-threatening, www.111.nhs.uk is available 24 hours a day.
Its symptom checker can be used to assess symptoms, and it will direct to a health professional if people need to be seen by someone. Also, self-care advice is available on NHS online.
Parents, carers and young people can also use the Healthier Together app or website which provides NHS healthcare advice and top tips on a range of child related illnesses along with information on local services.
Anyone needing mental health crisis support can phone NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
