Ambulance crew

Patients urged to access services despite record strike action

As the ongoing industrial action continues today, the NHS has issued a plea to the public asking them to call 999 in life-threatening emergencies and the 111 line for non-urgent healthcare needs.

The health service has bore the brunt of the biggest strike action in its history this week, with some of the latest data indicating that more than 40,000 hospital appointments were rescheduled last Monday and Tuesday alone.

Nurses at 73 English trusts took part in industrial action on Monday and Tuesday, with physiotherapists participating yesterday, and ambulance workers again today.

Despite this and the last few months’ disruption, the NHS has still managed to reduce ambulance waiting times and cut some of the backlog.

This is because the health service has prepared “extensively” for the strikes, with 24/7 control centres, expanded bed capacity, extended mental health support, and improved community falls services already in line to deal with the extra demand.

NHS Medical Director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “NHS staff have made incredible efforts to keep critical services running as best they can, but the reality is that today’s strike comes at the end of the biggest industrial action in the history of the NHS, and there has been little time to recover between strikes.

“We are incredibly grateful to the public for their care in how they use the health service during strike days, but we are seeing demand rising compared with previous days of industrial action.

“Disruption is inevitable, however it is vital that people do not put off seeking care and dial 999 in a life-threatening emergency and come forward for treatment using 111 online for non-life threatening care, as well as using local pharmacies or General Practice.

“Anyone with an appointment should continue to attend as planned unless they have been contacted to rearrange.”

National Health Executive, Jan/Feb, Cover

NHE Jan/Feb 22

The pioneering programmes aimed at solving the NHS workforce pressures - starting at the top

This issue highlights the latest topics within the health sector, from pioneering programmes aimed at solving the NHS workforce pressures, treatment to slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, how the UK is leading the way in cancer research & more!

Videos...

View all videos
National Health Executive Presents

National Health Executive Presents

NHE365 Virtual Events

NHE has created a full calendar of events to address the most important issues that influence the delivery of healthcare services. Over 365 days you'll have the opportunity to hear from a range of highly motivating, informative and inspirational speakers. These speakers will equip you with the knowledge and unique insight to enable you to overcome the challenges that you face.

Finger on the Pulse

Ep 14. Health messaging is a science, Professor Craig Jackson

On Episode 14 of NHE's Finger on the Pulse podcast, we're joined by Professor Craig Jackson, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology
Birmingham City University to discuss the coronavirus pandemic, the health messaging around it and how those in power have missed a trick by overlooking the key role of psychology in informing the public of restrictions, measures and the ever-changing situation

More articles...

View all