Help keep emergency care available during resident doctor strike action
People across Sussex and Surrey are being encouraged to plan ahead and make informed choices about healthcare during a forthcoming period of industrial action by resident doctors.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced that resident doctors will take part in national strike action from 7am on Monday 15 June to 7am on Friday 19 June 2026. Resident doctors are qualified doctors in clinical training who work across a range of healthcare settings including A&E departments, intensive care units, surgical theatres, inpatient wards and some GP surgeries or community clinics.
NHS organisations across Surrey and Sussex have been preparing for the industrial action and are working closely with health and care partners to minimise disruption and ensure patients continue to receive safe care throughout the period.
While every effort will be made to maintain services, some NHS departments are expected to be busier than usual, particularly those providing urgent and emergency care, and people may have to wait longer. Local health leaders are therefore asking people to consider the most appropriate service for their needs and seek help early where appropriate.
- Anyone who needs medical advice for a health concern that is not life-threatening should use NHS 111 online or by phone. The service is available around the clock and can help direct people to the most suitable care.
- Community pharmacies can also provide expert advice and treatment for a range of common conditions through the Pharmacy First service, often removing the need to wait for a GP appointment.
- Patients should continue to attend scheduled appointments and procedures unless they are contacted directly and advised otherwise.
- The NHS is also encouraging families and carers to help loved ones return home from hospital as soon as they are medically fit to leave, supporting the availability of beds for patients requiring hospital treatment.
- People who are unwell with infectious symptoms are asked to avoid visiting healthcare settings unless attendance is essential or urgent.
Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer for NHS Surrey and Sussex, said:
Industrial action presents challenges across the health service, but extensive plans are in place to ensure patients can continue to access the care they need.
Our message to the public is straightforward: please choose services carefully and seek help from the most appropriate source. NHS 111 and local pharmacies can provide quick and convenient support for many health concerns, helping people access care in the right place.
If you have an appointment, please attend as planned unless you hear from us. By working together and using services appropriately, we can help ensure emergency and urgent care remains available for those who need it most.
Further information about local NHS services and advice on accessing care is available through the NHS website and NHS 111.