THE Dudley Group has been forced to reschedule nearly 1,000 outpatient appointments to cope with the latest wave of strike action by junior doctors.

Seventeen scheduled operations have also had to be re-arranged as young medics prepare for a full-on walk out - which includes A&E cover, from 8am until 5pm today (Tuesday April 26) and Wednesday (April 27).

The Trust says it has put in place contingency plans to minimise the impact on patients as the dispute over pay and conditions, between the British Medical Association and the Government, rumbles on.

Paula Clark, chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, stressed: "Our priority will be to ensure that safe emergency, urgent and inpatient services are maintained throughout the period of action."

She said women who go into labour during the strike period will see no change to their care and will give birth as usual, whether in hospital or at home if they have chosen a home birth.

A number of theatre cases and 943 outpatient appointments have, however, had to be rearranged to ensure senior clinicians can provide ward-based cover - she said.

All patients affected have been contacted. Those who have not heard from the Dudley Group are advised to attend their appointments as usual.

People are, however, urged to only use the Accident and Emergency department if they are facing a serious or life-threatening situation.

Anyone unsure about where to go can call NHS 111 any time for free health advice and to be directed towards the most appropriate health service.

Ms Clark added: "We apologise for any inconvenience caused to patients whose procedures have been rescheduled.

"We will continue to review the situation and make further arrangements as necessary."