The British Medical Association (BMA) is taking strike action involving consultants at a number of NHS trusts, including the Royal Devon, from 7am on Thursday 24 August to 7am on Saturday 26 August.

The industrial action is a national dispute between the Government and Trades Unions about terms and conditions.

The safety of our patients and staff remains our top priority. We are committed to keeping disruption to services to a minimum on these dates and we have measures in place to ensure the safety and welfare of our patients and our staff.

Appointments - if you have an appointment at one of our hospitals, please attend unless you hear from us.

Please don’t call to check if your appointment is going ahead. We will be in touch with you directly if we need to rearrange your appointment.

Our emergency department (ED) - if you have a life-threatening emergency, our ED remains open 24 hours a day.

Please be aware that our hospitals, like the wider NHS and local health and care system, are really busy. If you have a medical problem that is not critical or life threatening please visit your local pharmacy or GP for advice or you can go to our minor injury units and walk in centre.

If you have an urgent medical problem that isn’t an emergency and aren’t sure what to do, contact 111 first by phone or online – they will provide medical advice and direct you to the best care for your needs.

Thank you.