Update on impact of BMA action

Following a recent ballot of its members by the BMA, June 21 will see doctors from across the country take part in industrial action in protest at the UK Government’s proposed changes to NHS pension arrangements.

 

Cardiff and Vale UHB has worked closely with local BMA representatives and its medical workforce to minimise the effect of the industrial action on those patients most in need of care and to ensure that emergency and urgent services are safeguarded, in line with BMA guidance.

 

Tracy Myhill, Cardiff and Vale UHB’s Acting Chief Executive, said that urgent and emergency community care and hospital services, including urgent GP appointments, would still be running. Any patients affected by the action will be notified by 5pm on Tuesday.

 

She said: “In light of the planned industrial action by BMA members, Cardiff and Vale UHB will be making changes to the services it provides on June 21, which will affect planned procedures and outpatient appointments.

 

“We are working closely with our doctors to ensure that emergency and urgent care services are provided. The UHB will continue to deliver clinically urgent, pre-booked surgery.”

 

Urgent out-patient activity will also continue, for example chemotherapy and other cancer services, haematology and renal services, like dialysis.

 

The industrial action does mean that some diagnostic tests, outpatient appointments and treatments for adults and children will have to be cancelled. Patients are advised that if they haven’t been contacted by 5pm on Tuesday, June 19, please attend as normal. Any cancelled appointments will be re-arranged as soon as practicable.

 

GP practices will be seeing any patients who require an urgent appointment. Patients are advised to contact their individual practices directly on the day if a GP appointment is needed. The relevant GP practice will assess and advise as necessary.

 

Patients are asked to help minimise the pressure on services by avoiding attending the Emergency Unit unless absolutely necessary. GPs will be able to provide urgent appointments where necessary and local pharmacies and NHS Direct will be operating as normal, offering a wealth of advice on common illnesses and ailments.

 

The Health Board is doing all it can to prepare for industrial action. However, as doctors are not entitled to disclose their intentions before the day, there may be an unforeseeable impact in some areas.

 

Cardiff and Vale UHB apologises for any distress or inconvenience caused to patients as a result of changes to services necessitated by the national day of action.