NHS Greater Manchester has issued advice on where people in Oldham can get medical help during the latest junior doctors' strikes beginning today. 

Junior doctors will go on strike today (June 27) until Tuesday, July 2. 

NHS Greater Manchester is asking people who need medical help during this time to ensure they choose the right service for their health needs. 

They have assured that GP practices will remain open throughout the strike but will potentially have staff striking.

Patients should still attend GP and dental appointments unless told otherwise and have been urged not to call 999 unless in an emergency.

A spokesman for Oldham Integrated Care Partnership said: “The NHS is asking the public to play their part during industrial action to look after themselves, loved ones and checking in on family members and neighbours who may need help.

“It’s really important that you attend medical or dental appointments unless you have been told differently.

“If you have regular medication, remember to order your repeat prescription in plenty of time so you don’t run out. Your GP practice will be open, but may it be busier than usual.

“Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is really important that people who need urgent medical care continue to come forward especially in emergency and serious life-threatening cases.”

Below is a breakdown of the services which will remain available and what help they can provide.

NHS 111

NHS 111 online is for all non-emergency healthcare needs but if the patient is under five years old then you should instead call 111. Deaf or people with hearing loss should call 18001 111 on a textphone. You can also use the Relay UK app (which can be downloaded from Apple’s App Store or Google Play Store).

NHS 111 can help if: 

  1. You need help but don’t know who to call
  2. How to find general health information and advice
  3. You are ill and need to be told what to do next
  4. How to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine

Pharmacy

If you are suffering from a minor condition, then a consultant at your local pharmacy may be able to help. If your condition can not be helped by the pharmacy, they may advise you to see a GP- find out what pharmacy's can do. 

There are pharmacies available late into the night and early in the morning, you can look at your local pharmacy's open hours online.

Urgent Dental Care

Available from 8am till 10pm everyday, the Greater Manchester Urgent Dental Care Service can be contacted for severe dental pain and infection.

People should call 0333 332 3800, where a healthcare professional will assess your condition and provide advice or book you for an appointment.

Urgent Eye Care

A free service, Urgent Eye Care provides help if you have a sudden and serious problem develop in your eyes.

To use this service contact your local practice to get an appointment.

Mental Health

To access free, urgent mental health support people in Oldham should call 0800 014 9995 (freephone).

This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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