NHS urges people not to use Cheltenham General's A&E during strikes

NHS leaders are asking local people to only use A&E in Gloucester or call 999 if their condition is life threatening or very serious.

During a 72 hour Junior Doctors strike, Cheltenham General Hospital's Emergency Department will be downgraded to a nurse led Minor Injury and Illness Unit.

They want to relieve the pressure on emergency care staff working at Gloucester Royal Hospital by providing them with more support.

This plan will come into effect on Sunday (12 March) from 8pm and will last until 8am on Thursday (16 March).

Patients are being told to expect cancellations to panned outpatient appointments, procedures and operations.

The NHS says they are making plans to keep essential services available, but warn the strike will "pose substantial challenges."

They will give the highest priority to those needing immediate and urgent care.

Despite disruption, they're telling patients with a planned hospital operation, outpatient clinic or procedure to attend as usual unless they hear otherwise from their NHS Trust.

Chief Medical Officer at NHS Gloucestershire, Dr Andy Seymour said:

“The 72-hour strike will bring substantial challenges to the local NHS, particularly hospital services, and we are sorry that many patients will experience disruption to services.

One Gloucestershire health and care partners are working closely together to ensure those in greatest need continue to have access to high quality care and support between Monday and Thursday.

We cannot emphasise enough how important it will be to keep A&E in Gloucester clear for life threatening conditions and serious injuries.

The public can help by thinking carefully about their healthcare options and getting advice when needed from NHS 111. Advice will also be available through local NHS social media channels.”

During the strikes, if people are unsure about the care they require, they're reminded to call 111.