Staffordshire hospitals A&E warning over junior doctors' stike
Health bosses today warned that hospitals in Staffordshire may be busier than usual during the next round of junior doctor strikes.
Officials at the University Hospitals of North Midlands trust have asked for members of the public to only visit A&E in genuine emergencies.
Junior doctors are planning to take industrial action, with the removal of emergency care cover, on Tuesday and Wednesday next week, between 8am and 5pm.
The trust's chief executive, Robert Courteney-Harris, said has asked the public to use emergency services wisely on these days.
He said: "Anyone who is scheduled to have an operation or an outpatient appointment should still attend unless they are contacted in advance.
"However, it is anticipated that our emergency services will be busier than usual.
"Essential care will be provided by senior staff, but the public can make a real difference in helping the NHS cope by choosing the right service for their needs and attending A&E only in genuine emergencies.
Where it is not an emergency, I would like to reiterate the message that there are much more suitable and convenient alternatives to A&E."
