The NHS is urging patients not to delay seeking medical care as tens of thousands of resident doctors in England prepare to stage a six-day strike starting Tuesday. The industrial action follows the government's withdrawal of a key part of its offer, including 1,000 extra training places.
NHS England has advised patients to attend planned appointments unless contacted to reschedule, and to call 999 or visit A&E in emergencies. Prof Ramani Moonesinghe, national clinical director for critical care, said: 'Staff across the NHS will be doing everything they can this week to keep patients safe. Patients should come forward as normal.'
Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the strike as 'disappointing' but assured patients the NHS would minimise disruption, noting that 95% of planned activity was delivered during December strikes. 'My heartfelt thanks go out to all those hard at work this week,' he said.
The British Medical Association (BMA), which is pushing for a pay rise above the 3.5% offered, said the government had 'watered down' a deal. Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the BMA's resident doctors committee, stated: 'His government needs to put an offer on the table that we can accept.' BMA staff are also due to strike in solidarity.
