• The British Medical Association (BMA) has published the findings of a survey of more than 6000 doctors on the impact of the pensions issue
• 40 per cent of hospital consultants told the BMA that it was their intention to reduce their working hours to avoid significant tax bills
• 42 per cent of GPs have already reduced the number of hours spent caring for patients because of actual or potential pension taxation charges

The director of policy and strategy at NHS Providers, Miriam Deakin said:

“These figures show the government needs to act to resolve the pensions issue.

“The NHS can not afford thousands more senior doctors or GPs feeling forced into reducing their working hours – or stopping altogether – to avoid significant tax bills. Many senior staff including clinicians and senior leaders are considering this option.

The NHS can not afford thousands more senior doctors or GPs feeling forced into reducing their working hours – or stopping altogether – to avoid significant tax bills.

Miriam Deakin    

“This is now an immediate problem for the NHS raising concerns about how trusts can manage patient safety if they cannot cover staff rotas. Many trusts are telling us that they are expecting to delay surgery, increase waiting times to see a consultant or are struggling with A&E performance because of these rota gaps.

“While we welcome the pensions consultation opened by the government, we need to see more options on the table as part of that process and a swift and meaningful resolution.”