• Use the right healthcare service for your needs
• NHS 111 is available for people who are unsure
• Industrial action affecting services

People throughout Bolton are being asked to choose the right healthcare service for their needs as strike action continues.

Junior doctors have voted to take strike action on Monday 13, Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 March.

The industrial action is affecting the services the Trust provides, which may result in delays for services and increased waits.

Rae Wheatcroft, Chief Operating Officer at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

We are always here to help those who need us, but during industrial action and periods of pressure we have to deal with the sickest and most urgent patients first.

“During the first day of strike action on Monday we saw a large number of people attend our emergency department with issues that could’ve been seen elsewhere, like at a GP surgery or a pharmacist.

“Yesterday we redirected several people who did not need to be in an emergency department elsewhere.

“If you do not have a serious or life-threatening situation and still attend our emergency department you may experience extremely long waits.

“If you’re not sure which service you need, whether that’s self-help, a GP or a pharmacist, NHS 111 online or by phone can help you.

Urgent and emergency care at Royal Bolton Hospital during industrial action is running at a reduced capacity.

Many routine appointments and procedures have also been postponed, to help the Trust focus on keeping its sickest patients safe.

Patients have been contacted directly if their appointment has been postponed.

Support is available for patients waiting for treatment.

For those patients who have not been contacted, please attend appointments as normal.

NHS 111 is available 24/7 for people to contact either by phone or online.