NHS Lincolnshire ‘prepared’ for doctors strike
NHS Lincolnshire and United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust say they are both prepared for the national doctors strike on Thursday, June 21.
Doctors registered with the BMA are striking due to changes in their pensions — the strike is the first since the 1970s.
While it is unknown how many doctors in Lincoln will strike, NHS Lincolnshire and its Trusts all have contingency plans prepared.
Emergency and urgent care services will be provided as usual, and any patient whose appointment is affected by the strike will be contacted prior to rearrange.
Most other hospital units are expected to be unaffected.
GP surgeries are also expected to run as usual with minimal disruption to patients.
Chief Executive for NHS Lincolnshire John McIvor said: “The NHS in Lincolnshire is working to minimise any impact to patient care as a result of the planned BMA industrial strike on Thursday.
“All NHS Trusts and key partners are working together to ensure that emergency and urgent care is unaffected.
“If you find that you require health care on that day you can receive treatment for common illnesses and injuries with medicine from your local pharmacy.
“Remember, if you’re ill and you’re unsure what to do, call NHS 111 free from landlines and mobiles and trained staff will advise you.”
A spokesperson from ULHT added: “ULHT is working with the Department of Health, health partners in Lincolnshire, the BMA and staff to plan services for Thursday in light of the proposed industrial action.
“Doctors taking industrial action on the day will still come into work and all emergency and urgent work will go ahead.
“Patients who have appointments that are classed as clinically non-urgent may be cancelled and will be contacted in advance.
“All other patients who have not been contacted should attend hospital for their appointments.”
