What is the hourly pay dispute for doctors in Scotland?

Doctors in Scotland are in a dispute over pay, with the BMA seeking an increase from £17.40 to £20.90 per hour, arguing their pay has not kept pace with inflation for 15 years.

Did the Scottish government break its 2023 deal with doctors?

BMA Scotland claims the Scottish government is breaking its 2023 pay deal with its latest offer, though the government disputes this, stating progress has been made.

How could doctor strikes affect NHS waiting times in Scotland?

Health Secretary Neil Gray warned that potential doctor strikes in Scotland could put progress on reducing NHS waiting times at risk.

Home / Business and Economy / Doctors Revolt: Scotland's Pay Deal Betrayed?

Doctors Revolt: Scotland's Pay Deal Betrayed?

22 Dec

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Summary

Doctors' pay increases have lagged behind inflation for 15 years.
BMA Scotland wants hourly pay to rise from £17.40 to £20.90.
Pay dispute risks disrupting NHS waiting times progress.

Doctors Revolt: Scotland's Pay Deal Betrayed?

Doctors in Scotland are expressing serious concerns over the government's latest pay offer, which the British Medical Association (BMA) Scotland claims breaks a previously agreed-upon 2023 deal. Dr. Lucas O'Donnell, deputy chairman of the BMA Scotland's resident doctors committee, stated that the current offer undermines the agreement, emphasizing that doctor's pay has fallen behind inflation for the past 15 years. The BMA is advocating for an increase in the starting hourly rate from £17.40 to £20.90.

O'Donnell further stressed the critical nature of doctors' roles, particularly when managing numerous patients and acting as first responders to emergencies, arguing that the proposed hourly rate is not excessive given these responsibilities. He expressed concern about retaining medical talent in Scotland, with many colleagues opting to work in countries like Australia and Canada. The BMA is urging the Scottish government to adhere to the terms of the deal that averted previous industrial action.