NHS Greater Manchester shares advice ahead of resident doctor industrial action

Health and care teams across Greater Manchester are working to ensure as many services as possible continue safely during this period. Consultants, specialist doctors, nurses and other NHS staff will continue providing care, but some services may experience extra pressure because resident doctors are part of teams in both hospitals and GP practices.

Hospitals and GP practices will contact patients directly if appointments need to be rearranged. If you have not been contacted, please attend as planned. Some planned or elective procedures may be rescheduled so services can prioritise care for those with urgent or time-sensitive needs.

Here’s how to get the right care during the period of industrial action:

• For life-threatening emergencies (for example, chest pain, severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, or stroke symptoms), call 999 or go to A&E. These services will always be available for those who need them most.
• For urgent but non-emergency needs, use NHS 111 online or by phone for advice on the most appropriate care. Call 111 for FREE, search ‘NHS 111’, or use the NHS App - available 24/7. SignVideo and Text Relay (18001 111) are available for accessibility.
• GP practices and pharmacies can help with many common conditions, ongoing care, and prescriptions.
• If you have a hospital or GP appointment and have not been contacted about a change, please attend as planned.

If you have a relative or friend who is ready to leave hospital, you can help by picking them up to go home or another residential setting as soon as practically possible. This helps free up hospital beds for those who need them most and supports staff to provide care where it’s needed most urgently.

How you can help during this period:

• Plan ahead for medicines by ordering and collecting prescriptions in good time.
• Use the right service for your needs: NHS 111, pharmacies, dentists, opticians, GP practices, and other local health services can often provide care, advice, or support.
• Look out for others by checking in on family, friends, or neighbours who may need support accessing care.
• Take care of your health: with flu circulating this winter, please book a flu vaccine if you’re eligible, and encourage loved ones to do the same.
• Stay informed by keeping an eye on official NHS channels for updates on local services and advice.

Dr Francis Andrews, consultant in emergency medicine and medical director, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust on behalf of all acute medical directors for NHS Greater Manchester said:

“We understand that industrial action can cause concern for patients and families. Teams across hospitals, GP practices and community services are working closely to ensure as many services as possible continue to operate safely.

“Resident doctors are an important part of the NHS workforce, and their planned absence will mean services are likely to be busier than usual. We’re asking everyone to plan ahead, use the right service for their needs, and support loved ones who are ready to return home from hospital.

“Thank you for your patience, understanding and kindness towards NHS staff during this period.”