Surgeries set to stay open as doctors strike

LOCAL disruption is expected to be kept to a minimum tomorrow during the first doctor’s strike in 40 years.

GP practices and clinics — as well as the Royal Oldham Hospital — are set to remain open during a day of industrial action in protest at Government pension reforms.

GPs are expected to see patients with appointments, but may refuse to do paperwork.

The British Medical Association (BMA) is taking the action after accusing the Government of reneging on a deal struck four years ago that saw doctors paying more and working longer. It has called on doctors to postpone non-urgent care for 24 hours.

Almost three–quarters of GP practices across the country will reportedly open as normal. Up to 100,000 doctors who are members of the BMA could be on strike.

A spokesperson from NHS Oldham said: “Doctors who participate in the industrial action have pledged to continue duties that are necessary for the safe continuance of clinical services on the day of action.

“Those patients requiring urgent care will be seen and treated appropriately.”




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