Wakefield NHS Trust warns patients to 'choose healthcare wisely' as doctors' strike begins

The resident doctors’ strike (previously known as junior doctors) will run for six days, starting today (April 7) and ending next Monday (April 13).

The Trust, which runs Pinderfields Hospital, Dewsbury District Hospital and Pontefract Hospital, has now asked the local community to consider the service that is right for them, ensuring timely and appropriate treatment for their medical conditions.       

Richard Robinson, chief medical officer at the Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, said: ”Our teams across the Trust remain focused on caring for people who need urgent medical help because they are seriously unwell, injured, or their life is at risk.

"Health concerns that are not emergencies can often be safely treated by other healthcare professionals, such as your GP or local pharmacy.

“Wherever possible, we ask people to contact NHS 111 before attending our Emergency Departments.

“We are continuing to deliver planned services wherever we can. However, to ensure urgent and emergency care is available for those who need it most, a small number of outpatient appointments or planned operations may need to be rearranged.

“If you have an appointment or procedure scheduled at the Trust, please attend as planned unless you are contacted directly to reschedule.

“Finally, we would like to thank all our staff for their flexibility during previous industrial action and for their continued commitment and support.’’

In addition to NHS 111, patients in Wakefield are encouraged to book face-to-face GP appointments for urgent problems or to book routine appointments in advance.