The NHS is asking the public to come forward as usual for care during collective action by GPs.  If you have an appointment with your GP practice, you should attend as usual, unless you are told otherwise.

Your practice will still be open to see patients, and you can book appointments through your practice.  However, some GPs may direct patients to other local services.

The Pharmacy First scheme provides access to prescription drugs without the need to see your doctor for several common conditions including earache, infected bites and sore throats, as well as urinary tract infections in women.  You can find more information about this online at nhs.uk.

Patients can also use NHS 111 Online to get advice, but as always, we are asking people to please use 999 only in a serious or life-threatening emergency.

Collective action by GPs is not industrial action as these are not employees.  For example, this means that unlike with a strike mandate, there is no end date, no requirement to seek a mandate renewal after six months, and no obligation to provide advance notice.