Do you REALLY need an ambulance today?

Junior doctors picketing at the JR Hospital, Oxford (Photo by John Walker)

IN preparation for the junior doctors’ strike starting this morning, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is encouraging members of the public to carefully consider the right treatment for their illness or injury during the period of industrial action from 08:00 to 17:00 today and tomorrow, Wednesday April 27.

SCAS has stated: “SCAS recognises the right of junior doctors to take action, however the Trust needs to maintain its essential service to the public and in the light of the industrial action, SCAS is working closely with all its partners, staff and the public to help reduce demand on its service during this time.

“Whilst we continue to focus on getting to patients with life-threatening injuries or illnesses as a priority, the impact of the industrial action on our service may lead to delays in getting to some patients in non-life threatening conditions. NHS organisations have tried and tested plans to deal with a range of disruptions including industrial action, but this is an unprecedented situation for the NHS.

“SCAS is working hard to ensure there are robust plans that focus on our top priority: protecting the safety, welfare and service we provide to patients. We will continue to monitor the situation as it develops and take appropriate action.”

SOURCE: Press release

NOTE: It may be more appropriate to seed medical advise from the 111 NHS non-emergency number. When should you call it?

You need medical help fast, but it’s not a 999 emergency
You don’t know who to call for medical help or you don’t have a GP to call
You think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service but are not sure which one is most appropriate; or
You require health advice or reassurance about what to do next