Costly BMA strike putting patients at risk, not NHS
22 July 2025
Daniel Elkeles responds to British Medical Association claims that NHS trusts are causing potential harm to patients by not having cancelled planned treatment already in anticipation of a strike.
Daniel Elkeles
Chief Executive,
NHS Providers
The resident doctors’ trade union claims NHS trusts are causing potential harm to patients by not having cancelled planned treatment already in anticipation of a strike.
Daniel Elkeles, chief executive, NHS Providers, said:
"The NHS, not the BMA, is putting patient's interests first.
"Given that some patients will be caused undoubted harm if the short-notice strike goes ahead, NHS trusts are doing the responsible thing by not cancelling people’s care whilst talks to avert the strike are ongoing.
"Now is a time for cool heads in the BMA because it’s not too late to avoid a damaging, costly strike. NHS trust leaders hope for a breakthrough from talks between government and the union.
"If the strike goes ahead then NHS trusts will do everything they can to avoid any harm to patients and are planning for as many patients as possible to be cared for."
Related articles
InsightsI am still not an angry black woman
4 Aug 2025In this blog, Edna Boampong, chair of the Taskforce for Diversity in NHS Communications, reflects on the barriers faced by ethnic minority comms professionals, and why the time for real change is now.
Race equality
Workforce
- News
Trusts urge end to strikes to avoid more patients being ‘punished’
3 Aug 2025Saffron Cordery responds to recent resident doctor strike impact data
Delivery and performance
Workforce
Quality
- News
NHS needs to act to prevent ethnic minority communications staff talent drain, new report shows
31 July 2025Daniel Elkeles comments on a new report and charter from the Taskforce for Diversity in NHS Communications, which seeks to improve racial diversity, equity and inclusion across the sector.
Race equality
Workforce