PATIENTS in South Gloucestershire are today being urged to consider if they really need to go to Southmead Hospital’s Emergency Department as junior doctors go out on strike.

For the first time in NHS history, a mass walk out of junior doctors has been underway since 8am and will continue until 5pm, with all cover withdrawn. Industrial action will also continue tomorrow.

North Bristol NHS Trust, which runs Southmead Hospital, said it would continue to provide emergency and urgent care during the strikes but is asking people to consider other health services available and not attend the Emergency Department unless they are suffering with a serious illness or injury.

The trust said: “We have been working hard to minimise disruption for our patients by arranging cover in the areas that are likely to be affected by the industrial action.

“We are now in the process of cancelling the majority of outpatient appointments and a number of non-urgent procedures and operations planned to take place on April 26 and 27. This is required in order to maintain a safe service across the trust.

“If you do not hear from us and you are due to come into hospital on April 26 and 27 for an appointment or planned admission, please assume this is still going ahead.”

The dispute is in relation to the Government’s proposal to introduce new terms and conditions of employment for junior doctors and major disruption is expected across the country.