Herefordshire and Worcestershire NHS services are set to be impacted by the junior doctors strike which will begin later this week.
The industrial action is likely to cause significant challenges for all NHS services in the area from June 27 - July 2.
Emphasising on the severity of the situation, NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s chief medical officer Dr Will Taylor said: "We are working closely with our partners to make sure patients can access the care they need, in a safe environment, during industrial action."
The leadership of healthcare services across both counties have urged residents to consider their use of services during the period and to prevent illness where possible to ensure that emergency services remain available for those in dire need.
Dr Julian Berlet, acting joint chief medical officer, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, explained: "With strikes taking place for a five-day period, we are expecting services to be under increased pressure.
"Patients whose condition is less serious may be asked to seek treatment elsewhere or face an extremely long wait."
Providing alternatives for non-critical care, Dr Berlet suggested contacting NHS 111, either online or via phone, for guidance on appropriate health services.
Pharmacists can also provide assistance for common conditions and minor injuries.
Dr Emma Wales, associate chief medical officer at the Wye Valley NHS Trust, appealed to the public to assist the NHS in managing the impact of the strikes.
She said: "We’re doing all we can to ensure we provide safe services during the industrial action this week.
"We’re expecting it to be very busy and are appealing for people to help us by choosing wisely and only visiting our Emergency Department if they are seriously sick.
"There are alternatives and we’d urge people to consider these."
She also reassured those with already scheduled appointments to continue with them.
NHS services have promised to prioritise resources for emergency treatments, critical care, neonatal care, and trauma during the strike action.
Appointments will only be cancelled if necessary and will immediately be rescheduled.
The NHS 111 online service and trained advisers are available for urgent, but not life-threatening medical needs, 24 hours a day.
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