KGH: Only use emergency services if you absolutely have to during junior doctors' strike

The industrial action is set to take place from 8am for 24 hours on Wednesday, February 10.

KGH medical director Dr Andrew Chilton says patients should attend appointments unless they are told not to.

He said: “The trust is working closely with doctors and staff across all departments, to ensure the planned industrial action does not affect patient safety.

“We do anticipate there will be an impact by the action on some routine surgical lists and some outpatient clinics.

“Our message to patients is that they should attend their hospital appointments as normal unless they are advised by us otherwise.

“For any patients who will be affected we will be advising them of this in advance by letter or telephone call so that we can rearrange their appointment.”

“All emergency services – such as A&E and our emergency assessment units and emergency theatres – will be operational during this first day of action and so will our wards and departments.

“Clearly, though, there will be a level of reduced staffing in some areas and we would appeal to the public only to use emergency services if they absolutely have to during this period.

“Whilst we are taking all possible steps to limit inconvenience and disruption we would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may arise as a result of the action.”