Junior doctors in Sussex begin five-day walk out in row over pay
NHS services across Sussex are expected to be disrupted until Wednesday
The latest round of strike action by junior doctors starts today and will affect NHS services across Sussex until Wednesday.
The walk-out's lasting for five days as doctors continue their row with the government over pay and conditions.
Patients in Sussex are being warned to expect major disruption, including cancelled appointments and procedures.
The strike action in January sparked concerns over patient safety.
The clinical director at NHS Sussex, Dr Richard Fieldhouse, has explained how this months walk-out will affect patients.
"This action means fewer medical staff will be on duty, potentially extending waiting times for being seen and treated. Despite the strike, essential services such as pharmacies, walk-in centres, minor injury units and urgent treatment centres remain operational."
He's advised if you do require medical attention during the strike action, to check which service you need.
"Emergency departments and 999 should only be used for life threatening conditions. For non-emergency issues, NHS 111 online should be your first point of contact for guidance and support."
Dr Fieldhouse said the walk-out is expected to cause a back-log in wait times, but being on time to pick-up patients can help ease pressures.
"We ask you to promptly collect any family or friends who are ready to be discharged from hospital. Please avoid visiting hospitals if you have flu or COVID-19 symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, unless it is for emergency care."
The strike action from junior doctors in England has come as junior doctors in Wales end their three-day walk-out over pay.
The five-day strike has come as a result of the government failing to present a new pay offer.
The Health Secretary, Victoria Atkins, has said she's disappointed the strike is going ahead and insists the government wants to negotiate a deal.
Medics are asking for a 35% pay rise, after what they say, is years of falling behind.