An update on industrial action at OUH

This article is from Monday 18 December 2023 - the situation may change with time.

Junior doctors - including those at OUH - are taking industrial action from 7am on 20 December to 7am on 23 December 2023, and from 7am on 3 January to 7am on 9 January 2024.

The January dates signify the start of the longest instance of industrial action so far.

Although we will continue to provide urgent and emergency care wherever possible, we have had to reschedule some appointments and elective (planned) inpatient and day case procedures to ensure we keep our patients who are currently in hospital safe.

To help us safely manage the impact of industrial action, some routine and non-urgent appointments and procedures, day surgery, and some elective (planned) surgery across our four hospitals in Oxford and Banbury from Wednesday 20 to Saturday 23 December have been rescheduled.

We have also had to reschedule some procedures on Wednesday 3 to Tuesday 9 January 2024.

Some appointments before and after the days of industrial action may also be affected.

All patients who are affected are being contacted directly. We never take this decision lightly, and thank you for your co-operation.   

If you have not heard from us by the day of your appointment, please come to your procedure or appointment as planned.
We are doing everything possible to prioritise patients with the highest clinical needs, including cancer and dialysis patients, and those who have already waited a long time for their treatment.

Sara Randall, Chief Operating Officer at OUH, said: "These next instances of industrial action are going to be very challenging for us here at OUH. We are working hard to ensure the safety of all our patients, and the wellbeing of our staff. This action comes at a time when the NHS is typically under a lot of additional pressure with winter illnesses.

"Our urgent and emergency care services are highly likely to be affected by the upcoming industrial action in terms of waiting times. Our Emergency Department colleagues are working exceptionally hard, and have to prioritise patients who genuinely need emergency care.

"If your condition is less serious, you are likely to face a very long wait, or will be asked to find help elsewhere - whether that be your local Pharmacy, Minor Injuries Unit, or GP. If you don't know where to get support, contact NHS 111 / 111.nhs.uk who can provide advice and direct you to the best place for the care you need.

"As always, our priority is to continue to provide safe care for our patients. Anyone with a rescheduled appointment will be rebooked to the earliest possible date.

"Finally, I would like to add that our staff are working extremely hard during a very challenging time - please do treat them with respect.  There are no excuses for aggressive or abusive behaviour.

"Thank you for your understanding and co-operation at this difficult time."