APPOINTMENTS at Dorset hospitals could be postponed as junior doctors prepare to go on strike over pay.

Members of the British Medical Association (BMA) are set to walk out for 96 hours from 7am on Tuesday, April 11, until 7am on Saturday, April 15.

And the Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust says it could affect appointments for patients.

“Our junior doctors are vital for patient care and the running of our hospitals,” a spokesperson said.

“During their industrial action, some medically-led activity will be postponed to ensure we can provide safe emergency and inpatient care.

“You will hear directly from our Trust if we have to postpone your appointment – if you don’t hear from us, please attend as planned.

“We appreciate how hard this can be for people who are waiting, and we will rearrange as soon as we are able.”

However, it said no one should put off seeking urgent or emergency care during the strikes and people with serious, life-threatening conditions will continue to be seen at Emergency Departments (ED).

The BMA is staging industrial action in a bid for full pay restoration.

The association says pay for junior doctors has been effectively cut by more than a quarter since 2008.

Members voted overwhelmingly for the action, with 98% of those who voted backing the move.

“A crippling cost-of-living crisis, burnout and well below inflation pay rises risk driving hard working doctors out of their profession at a time when we need them more than ever,” a spokesperson said.

“To protect the NHS, the Government must engage and address doctors’ concerns.”