NHS leaders are reminding the public to only call 999 for an ambulance or attend an Emergency Department for life-threatening conditions or injuries only, as the region's health services plan for further strike action next week.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has called for resident doctors working in hospitals to take part in six days of industrial action from 7am Tuesday 7 April until 7am Monday 13 April 2026.
Patients across the North East and North Cumbria should expect disruption and potential long waits during the strike, and during the immediate following days when patient attendance often peaks.
The strike comes also comes after the Easter bank holiday weekend, which is a usually pressured period for health services.
Dr Neil O'Brien, chief medical officer for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board said: "You should seek medical help if you need it but be aware that people needing less urgent medical treatment can expect long delays, as emergency and urgent care services will be prioritised during this time.
"So please only call 999 and attend emergency departments if it is a genuine life-threatening injury or illness.
"For urgent health needs that are not life threatening, please use 111 online.
"GP practices and local pharmacies will still be open as usual during the industrial action to help with advice and treatments."
The NHS is also reminding the public to keep their appointments unless they hear otherwise.
Dr O'Brien added: "People will be contacted directly if there are any changes to their planned appointment or surgery, and there is no need to contact the NHS about this."
The public are reminded for urgent health needs, which are not life threatening, www.111.nhs.uk is available 24 hours a day. Its symptom checker can be used to assess symptoms, and it will direct to a health professional if people need to be seen by someone. Also, self-care advice is available on NHS online.
Parents, carers and young people can also use the Healthier Together app or website which provides NHS healthcare advice and top tips on a range of child related illnesses along with information on local services.
Anyone needing mental health crisis support can phone NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
