• Make sure you choose the right service for you
• Patients unsure on best service asked to use 111.nhs.uk
• August rounds of industrial action expected to have bigger impact on NHS in Bolton

Public asked to choose the right healthcare service for them as the NHS in Bolton expects to be extra busy during upcoming rounds of industrial action.

Bolton NHS Foundation Trust is preparing for strike action from consultants between 7am on 24 August and 7am on 26 August.

During the industrial action some appointments and procedures will unfortunately be cancelled, although any affected patients will be contacted directly.

Urgent and emergency services are available to help those who need it as normal.

Dr. Francis Andrews, Medical Director at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

Thank you for your patience during rounds of industrial action and as some of our services are affected as a result.

“We will be putting our tried and tested plans in place to help ensure the impact felt is as minimal as possible, however please remember that if you have an urgent or emergency care need we are here for you.

“Any non-urgent or non-life-threatening care need can be helped by using 111.nhs.uk, speaking with your GP or your pharmacist, or by using self-care, but please do use 999 in an emergency.

During industrial action in July Bolton NHS Foundation Trust saw:

• Close to 1,000 outpatient appointments lost
• Nearly 100 procedures affected
• A financial impact of more than £1m in lost costs and the cost of catching up on this activity

Francis added:

We know the impact is huge on everyone but most importantly on those patients affected.

“Our teams will be doing everything they can to help and support people during this time and with rearranging any affected appointments and procedures.

“If you have not been contacted to say your appointment has been cancelled please make sure you still attend.

The information you need

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

The Be The Difference Bolton website has information to help you choose the right NHS service for your health need.

The While you wait website also has lots of helpful information on staying well whilst you wait for treatment.

If a relative or friend is due to be discharged from hospital and needs to be collected, help by bringing them home as early as possible as this will free-up beds for someone waiting to be admitted.