Doctors at Bedford and Luton hospitals set to go on strike this week

But while it will significantly impact services at Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, people are advised to attend appointments as planned unless they’re rescheduled.

A spokesperson for the trust said: “Our staff are working hard to ensure we can continue to provide both emergency care for the most seriously ill and injured patients, as well as maternity services and care on the wards for our patients.

“Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is really important that patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases – when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.

“Everyone who has a hospital appointment from November 14 to 19 should attend as planned, unless we have contacted you to reschedule. We will be rearranging any postponed appointments as a priority.”

Patients are asked to use NHS services wisely and take simple steps to help ensure care is available to patients who need it most. This includes using 111 online as the first port of call for health needs and continuing to only attend A&E if it is a life-threatening emergency.

Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust says patients will be contacted if their appointment is cancelled and advised of re-scheduled appointments,

Anyone who needs urgent care should use NHS111 online to be assessed and directed to the right care. Those who do not have internet access should call the111 helpline contact their local GP or pharmacy.

Patients should only call 999 if seriously ill or injured, and there is risk to life. Ambulances will be dispatched where clinically appropriate.

The British Medical Association (BMA) announced the strike after talks with the government broke down, marking the 13th round of industrial action since the dispute began in March 2023.

The BMA claims that, despite recent pay rises, resident (junior) doctors' pay is still around 20 per cent lower in real terms than in 2008.

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