Patients across the UK are facing a potential five-day strike by resident doctors, scheduled to take place between 14th – 19th November. This strike, organized by the British Medical Association (BMA), is causing grave concerns for the Patients Association, who fear the devastating impact it will have on patients.
As the NHS prepares for what could be one of the toughest winters ever faced, the human cost of an overstretched healthcare system is already evident. Patients are facing longer wait times, deteriorating care, and delayed treatments. And with a five-day strike looming, the situation is only expected to worsen.
During the previous strike action in the summer, patients shared their stories of appointments being cancelled at short notice, after waiting for months. One patient, who was at risk of losing sight in their eye, had their urgent procedure cancelled due to the strike. This highlights the fear and uncertainty patients face when their care is affected by industrial action.
The impact of the strike is not just limited to physical health. The Patients Association is concerned about the toll it will take on patients’ mental health, as the ongoing dispute between the BMA and the government causes anxiety and distress. Should the strike go ahead, patients will once again bear the consequences, with long-term effects as delays and rescheduling of appointments and treatments will extend well into the new year.
The BMA has rejected the government’s latest offer, and while the Patients Association acknowledges the concerns of resident doctors, they are calling on both sides to prioritize patient care and return to negotiations. They are also urging the government to commence immediate independent arbitration to break the deadlock.
Sir Jim Mackey, Chief Executive at NHS England, speaking at The King’s Fund annual conference on 6th November, stated that this winter will be one of the toughest faced by NHS staff. The UK Health Security Agency also reported a surge in flu admissions, with the overall weekly hospital admission rate increasing at a concerning rate.
The Patients Association is an independent patient charity that campaigns for improvements in health and social care. They believe that patients should be actively involved in decisions made about their care and the design of the healthcare system. Through their helpline and information services, they provide vital information to patients, empowering them to advocate for themselves.
For further information or interviews, please contact media@patients.association.org.uk.
