The NHS is asking the public to still come forward as usual for care during collective action over funding levels by GP services.

GP services across England began collective action on 1 August for an indefinite period of time, and while there may be some disruption to services practices will remain open as usual and patients can make requests by phone, on-line or by walking in.

The British Medical Association (BMA) has told its members they can limit appointments to 25 a day during the dispute.

During collective action, practices are still required to be open between 08:00 and 18:30 Monday to Friday.

It is vital that patients still attend their appointments unless they are told otherwise, and practices should inform you of any changes to services.

The nature of the action means that the impacts will vary at different GP practices and from area to area but could include GPs limiting the number of patient appointments per day.

Patients should continue to use 111 for urgent medical help when their GP practice is unavailable and if it is a serious or life-threatening emergency call 999.

Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS national director for primary care and community services, said: “GPs and their teams are the bedrock of the NHS, and we recognise they are working really hard and dealing with record demand. On behalf of patients, the NHS has a duty to plan for collective action, and we will continue to work with government to find a resolution and end collective action.

“Our message to the public remains the same – they should continue to come forward for care during this collective action, as GP practices will remain open.”