'Think about where to get medical help during junior doctors' strike'

Members of the British Medical Association (BMA), including those at Rotherham Hospital, are holding a 48-hour walkout until 8am on Friday in a row over changes to their contracts.

The changes include the curbing of junior doctors’ pay package and changes to what is classed as “unsociable hours.”

Guaranteed pay increases linked to time in the job are also expected to be scrapped and replaced with a system linked to progression through set training stages.

Bosses at Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust a “small number” of clinics have been postponed, with 81 patients affected.

A spokesman said: “All patients affected have been informed. Therefore, if you have an appointment at the Trust and have not heard from us, you should attend as normal.

“We would urge people to think about the best place to access care if they become ill.

“Getting the right care, first time, will ensure that they get the best possible treatment, leaving emergency health services free for those who need them most.

“Accident and Emergency is for life-threatening emergencies. If you are not sure where to attend, call the NHS service on 111 for advice.”

The BMA also plans to hold two further 48-hour strikes from April 6 to 8 and April 26 to 28.