HOSPITALS in East Lancashire are preparing to deal with the first all-out strike by junior doctors in the history of the NHS.

East Lancashire Hospitals Trust has reassured patients that it has implemented a number of measures to ensure patients receive safe care and staffing levels are adequate.

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The British Medical Association has defended the two-day walkout, which begins at 8am today (Tue) repeating its stance that it will call off the strike if Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt agrees to lift his threat to impose the contract.

Dr Damian Riley, Executive Medical Director at the Trust said: “To minimise the impact on the Trust at this very busy time, we would like to remind people not to come to A&E unless it is a real medical emergency.

"As during previous strikes, consultants will be providing cover on wards and across emergency care but we are likely to be very busy.

“Patients who require urgent and emergency care will continue to receive the treatment they need, when they need it. However, due to increased pressures on the Trust over this period, those in less urgent need of care may experience longer waiting times than normal.

"A number of elective operations and outpatients clinics have been cancelled and will be rearranged - those patients who are affected by this have been contacted.

"In all cases, priority will be given to those with the most pressing health needs to ensure that we can continue to provide safe, personal and effective care to all our patients."

Alternatives for people during the strike include dialling 111, visiting the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk or seeing a GP or pharmacist.