The NHS in the South West is preparing for another round of industrial action by resident doctors, who are due to strike directly after the Easter weekend – from 7am on Tuesday 7 April until 7am on Monday 13 April December.

Plans are in place to maintain services as far as possible at near-normal levels, to minimise disruption for patients.

The key advice to the people across the region is to use emergency services as usual, if needed, and to attend any planned appointments unless they have been contacted to reschedule. While flu is also causing extra admissions, this should not deter anyone from attending.

NHS England’s South West Medical Director, Dr Trevor Smith, said: “It’s really disappointing that we’re facing yet another round of industrial action, which will inevitably affect patients. We’re doing all we can to keep services going, but we know from experience that some people’s diagnosis and treatment will; be delayed.

“I’m also worried about all those staff who’ve just emerged from a tough winter, but will step up for extra shifts to keep things running. With the strike coming straight after Easter, that means many will have their holiday plans ruined, just when they needed the time off with their families to recover.

“Our priority, as always, is to keep critical services available, so please don’t delay if you need urgent or emergency care.

“And if you have an appointment scheduled during the strike, please do attend. If it’s affected, we’ll always be in touch to re-arrange.”

NHS advice is to:

• Dial 999 if it’s an emergency
• Use NHS 111, your GP and your pharmacist if it’s less urgent

Another way you can help, especially over the Easter period, is by stocking enough of any prescription medicine, and ordering now if needed, to avoid running out over the holidays. This can be done easily through the NHS App or by contacting your GP practice.

Full advice for public and patients during the strike is available here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/information-for-the-public-on-industrial-action/