Gloucestershire A&E services altered amid doctors' strike
Temporary changes to Cheltenham's emergency care due to industrial action
Gloucestershire will see changes to its emergency healthcare services as an industrial action by Resident Doctors is set to take place.
The industrial action, led by the British Medical Association, will commence at 7am on 7th April and conclude at 7am on 13th April.
Temporary adjustments to service operations are being made to ensure patient safety during this period.
Temporary Changes to Cheltenham A&E
Cheltenham's Accident and Emergency department will operate differently during the strike.
From 8pm yesterday (6th April), it transitioned to a Minor Injuries and Illness Unit, running from 8am to 8pm daily until 12th April.
The department will be closed overnight until normal operations resume at 8am on 13th April.
Planned Operations and Clinics
Patients scheduled for operations or outpatient services between 7th and 16th April are advised to attend unless informed otherwise.
To maintain safe staffing levels for emergencies, some appointments may need rescheduling.
Relatives are encouraged to assist in expediting hospital discharge processes with added support from local NHS services if required.
Healthcare Advice During Strike
The NHS urges local individuals to use services wisely, anticipating increased consultations for urgent cases.
For guidance on where to seek urgent care, visit 111.nhs.uk or use the 111 phone service, which may experience higher call volumes.
Cheltenham MIIU and other Community Hospital units will continue offering services from 8am to 8pm.
Updates and advice regarding this industrial action can be found on NHS social media channels and websites.