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NHS Strikes: Resident Doctors Defy Calls to Postpone Action
13 Dec
Summary
- Resident doctors are proceeding with industrial action despite severe NHS winter pressures.
- Patient safety is a significant concern due to the ongoing 'flunami' and hospital strain.
- The British Medical Association head refuses to reconsider strike timing amid government offer.
The National Health Service is currently grappling with immense pressures, exacerbated by a severe 'flunami' driving unprecedented hospitalizations. Resident doctors are proceeding with planned industrial action, a move widely criticized as dangerous and wrong given the critical state of patient care. Hospital leaders warn of a situation not seen since the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for all hands on deck.
Despite the government presenting an improved offer on jobs and training, and a substantial pay rise, the British Medical Association's chair, Dr. Tom Dolphin, refuses to postpone the strike. He argues the NHS is already year-round strained. However, health secretary Wes Streeting expresses genuine fear for patient safety, highlighting the potential for lives to be at risk.
