Some operations will be cancelled across Lincolnshire hospitals as consultants walk out

They're taking industrial action for 48 hours

Some operations will be cancelled across Lincolnshire hospitals as consultants walk out
Author: Andy MarshPublished 24th Aug 2023

Consultants across the country are going on strike today over pay.

The British Medical Association's 48-hour walkout is their second round of industrial action in just over a month, with more strikes planned for September.

They're unhappy about the current pay offer.

However Health Secretary Steve Barclay says a 6% pay rise will be the final offer, and has urged the BMA to stop the strike action.

The last thing we want is people not to step forward and come to harm as a result.

It'll have an impact on hospital services with some operations and procedures cancelled.

We spoke to Dr Sunil Hindocha Medical Director of the NHS Lincolnshire integrated care board in Lincolnshire.

He told us: "If you have an urgent medical need we do not want people to postpone that and come to harm."

"If needs be then please do step forward because the last thing we want is people not to step forward and come to harm as a result."

He was asked about plans to keep services going during the strikes.

We're planning to maintain as much of our capacity as possible

"I'm always amazed by the dedication and hard work NHS staff are willing to put in to ensure that patients get the care they need."

"They are stepping forward time and again to make sure services keep running."

He has this advice for anyone who might need services.

"We're planning to maintain as much of our capacity as possible so if we do need to cancel you then we'll let you know."

If you have a non urgent issue he says:

"There's NHS 111 online, GP practices are open, out of hours is working as normal."

"But if you do have an urgent issue then you must still come forward."

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