The British Medical Association (BMA) and the Hospital Consultants and Specialists Association (HCSA) are taking strike action involving junior doctors at a number of NHS trusts, including the Royal Devon, from 7am on Wednesday 20 December until 7am on Saturday 23 December.

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 working together across the Trust to ensure we have robust plans in place to ensure the safety and welfare of our patients and our colleagues during the upcoming strike action.

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.