Decision to strike is a ‘crushing blow’ for patients and the NHS

Responding to the announcement by the British Medical Association (BMA) that resident doctors will go ahead with strikes, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Daniel Elkeles, said:

“This decision is a crushing blow for patients and for the NHS. 
“Trusts have been holding off cancellations while there was the realistic prospect of a breakthrough.

“They will now be doing all they can to ensure there are fewer – and in some cases many fewer – cancellations than last time.

“Safety is paramount, so unfortunately there will be some disruption for patients because of the need to provide cover.

“We urge resident doctors to help trusts minimise the harm by notifying them of their plans for strike days.

“For example we must ensure that there are enough staff for all the cancer, transplant and maternity care that cannot and must not be delayed.

“Another huge worry is the cost. It is vital that consultants providing cover take NHS rates of pay rather than insisting on inflated BMA rates that are simply unaffordable.

“All avenues for discussion should be exhausted before turning to strikes.

“We say to the BMA ‘think again’ and pull back from this hugely damaging decision.”