In response to comments by Dr Vin Diwakar, NHS national medical director for secondary care, ahead of another two-day strike by senior doctors, Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive of NHS Providers, said:

"A two-day strike by senior doctors just before a bank holiday weekend and when many staff are on well-deserved summer holidays is a massive headache for the NHS.

"Trust leaders have once again put plans in place for cover and to minimise disruption as far as possible. But that gets harder and more expensive with every strike.

"Official figures show more than 897,000 routine procedures and appointments have been delayed due to strikes across the NHS since December. The true figure, including appointments that weren't booked in because of industrial action, is likely to be significantly higher. And strikes have cost the NHS an estimated £1bn.

"Trust leaders understand the strength of feeling among striking staff and why they're taking action. Consultants plan to strike again in September. All of this is ramping up pressure on already stretched NHS services gearing up for another demanding winter.

"The government and unions must find a solution urgently. All NHS staff want to get on with tackling record waiting lists and treating more patients more quickly instead of spending valuable time planning for more strikes.

"People can still rely on the NHS during strikes, calling 999 in an emergency. For less urgent cases people should use 111 online for help and advice."