HEALTH chiefs in south Devon say they are working to minimise disruption during the six day junior doctors’ strike. 

The action is due to last until 7am on Tuesday January 9, making it the longest strike by doctors in NHS history. 

The ongoing dispute, which has lasted since early last year, between the Government and the British Medical Association, is over pay and conditions. 

During the strike, Torbay and South Devon NHS Trust is asking patients to attend appointments unless they have been contacted to rearrange. 

A trust spokesman said: ‘We are working hard to minimise disruption to our services, and have measures in place to ensure the safety and welfare of our patients and our staff. 

‘Our NHS is busy – please help us by using the most appropriate service for your condition.

‘Our urgent treatment centre at Newton Abbot and Totnes Minor Injuries Unit are open to treat broken bones, cuts, grazes, burns, scalds, bites, cuts, stings and wounds and minor illnesses such as tonsillitis, ear infections and water infections. 

‘Please only call 999 or visit our emergency department if you need care for a life-threatening or critical condition. 

‘Please call your GP first if you have a routine health enquiry, or 111 if it cannot wait until your GP surgery reopens. You can get advice and treatment for a range of minor ailments from a community pharmacist. Thank you for supporting us.'