Milton Keynes Hospital to minimise disruption during industrial action

The hospital says that patients in need of urgent and emergency care will continue to receive the treatment they need, when they need it.

“The hospital have tried and tested plans to deal with this period of industrial action and will ensure that the safety and welfare of our patients remains the top priority,” said Professor Joe Harrison, Chief Executive at Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

“Our plans have also been shared across other organisations locally and nationally to ensure that everything is place to provide excellent health care for the people of Milton Keynes during this time.

“To those patients that have been affected by the reduction in our elective services: Thank you for your patience in this matter – we will be in contact to rearrange appointments as soon as we can,” he added.

Increased pressures on the hospital during this 48-hour period does mean those in less urgent need of care may experience longer waiting times than normal and some planned clinics and operations have been postponed.

“Our priority is to keep our patients safe. We have been working closely with our colleagues across the health and social care system to put robust plans in place to ensure services remain safe during the proposed industrial action,” said Dr Nicola Smith, chair of NHS Milton Keynes CCG.

“There are simple things that people in Milton Keynes can do to help. For example it is important to think carefully about whether they can treat their minor illness at home, with help from their local pharmacist or by calling NHS 111 for advice.

“NHS 111 provides medical advice 24 hours, seven days a week. People can also visit www.nhs.uk/strike for further advice and information.

“The NHS is open for business but we ask the public to use it wisely in this very challenging time as some services may change and some may be busier than usual so contact services early if you need to book appointments during this time.”

If your condition is serious or life threatening, call 999 or go to Accident and Emergency

If you need medical help on these days but it’s not serious or life-threatening please contact your GP, visit your local pharmacist, call 111 or consult www.nhs.uk.