The UK's National Health Service (NHS) is bracing itself for a 'triple whammy' of pressure this week as resident doctors embark on a four-day strike, coinciding with an expected heatwave and the start of the World Cup.
The strike, which begins on 15 June and ends on 19 June, has raised concerns among health officials that hospitals could face increased demand for emergency care due to the hot weather.
However, the NHS has reassured patients that services will remain available for urgent care, including NHS 111, community pharmacies, GP practices, and other urgent and emergency services.
Professor Frankie Swords, National Medical Director at NHS England, urged patients to come forward for care as normal, saying: 'The NHS remains open as usual during this period of industrial action, with staff across the NHS doing everything they can to keep patients safe and minimise disruption to services.'
Patients with life-threatening emergencies should continue to call 999 or attend A&E immediately, while those with urgent but non-life-threatening needs should use 111 online first, where they will be directed to the most appropriate service.