The local NHS and patients are facing further disruption as industrial action takes place between 7am on 27 June and 7am on 2 July 2024.

While hospital and community NHS services in Dorset will be making sure they have adequate staffing levels during the dates when industrial action is taking place, regrettably some appointments and surgeries may be postponed, to help maintain the safety of our emergency services.

Any patients affected will be contacted directly.

Please assume your appointment is going ahead unless you are told otherwise. Please check your voicemail before attending your appointment, as we may leave a message if we are unable to reach you.

Visit staywelldorset.nhs.uk to find out more about local services.

Patient discharge

Staying in hospital for longer than needed has a negative impact on how well patients recover. Most patients will continue to recover at home once they leave hospital. In fact, many patients need to leave hospital to be able to complete their recovery fully.

Help us get patients who are ready for discharge home, so our hospital beds are available for people who need them most urgently. Please speak to the ward team if you need more information and respond quickly to any calls from us about your relative leaving hospital.

Help us continue to provide care for those who need it most by using the right services at the right time:

  • Pharmacies can help with allergies, constipation, headaches, earaches, and many other ailments find a pharmacy near you
  • Use NHS 111 online or by phone for other urgent care needs
  • Contact your GP (General Practice) practice for non-urgent care
  • If you need mental health support call Connection on 0800 652 0190. The Connection service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
  • Keep 999 and A&E clear for genuine life-threatening emergencies