Sussex Patients Told Not To Delay Care During NHS Strike Action

People across Sussex are being urged not to put off seeking medical help during this week’s NHS resident doctor strikes.

The industrial action starts at 7am on Tuesday 7 April and continues until 6.59am on Monday 13 April, with NHS teams preparing for a busy and potentially challenging period.

Despite the disruption, urgent and emergency care will be prioritised, alongside key services such as cancer treatment and maternity care.

The NHS says it has previously managed to keep most services running, including delivering nearly 95% of planned care during strike action in December.

This week’s strikes are expected to be more difficult due to the timing over the Easter holidays and the shorter notice given.

Patients are advised to attend scheduled appointments unless they are told otherwise.

GP surgeries, NHS 111 and emergency services will remain open. Anyone needing urgent but non-life-threatening care should use NHS 111 online, while emergencies should still be directed to 999 or A&E.

Professor Ramani Moonesinghe says NHS staff will be doing everything possible to keep services running safely.

She said:

“Staff across the NHS will be doing everything they can this week to keep patients safe and ensure people can continue to get the care they need.”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting also acknowledged the impact of the strikes, but praised NHS workers for maintaining services during previous action.

He said the focus remains on protecting patients and minimising disruption, adding that the NHS will continue to be there for those who need it.