The resident doctors' strike is back, and this time, it's personal! In a bold move, resident doctors across England have announced their decision to strike again, demanding the government's attention to their critical concerns.
The British Medical Association (BMA) resident doctors committee has confirmed that doctors will be back on the picket lines, this time during the festive season, urging the government to take action. The strike is scheduled to begin with full walk-outs from 7 am on December 17th and last until 7 am on December 22nd, just days before Christmas.
Co-chair of the BMA resident doctors committee, Jack Fletcher, emphasized that doctors would much rather be treating patients than protesting, but the government's lack of response to their pressing issues leaves them with no other option. He pointed out the government's failure to address the jobs crisis and pay erosion among resident doctors, which has pushed them to this drastic measure.
But here's where it gets controversial: Dr. Fletcher suggests that the government has the means to resolve these issues. He argues that gradual pay increases over a few years and simple solutions to improve job security are well within the government's reach. This could ensure a robust healthcare workforce for the long term and prevent the embarrassing scenario of unemployed doctors while patients struggle to access even basic healthcare.
This strike announcement comes on the heels of a five-day walkout in November and a recent letter from the committee to NHS England's chief executive, Jim Mackey. The letter shed light on the dire situation of many doctors applying for jobs, with foundation year 2 candidates unable to secure interviews due to competition from more experienced doctors facing training place bottlenecks.
Dr. Fletcher highlighted the absurdity of the jobs crisis, with new doctors being asked for unreasonable levels of experience for basic training posts. He believes this is a key factor driving doctors to the picket lines and urges the government to take immediate action.
With the current mandate for industrial action set to end in January, the committee has already taken steps to extend their right to strike. A ballot will be held from December 8th until February 2nd, 2024, to decide whether the resident doctors will continue their strike action. A 'yes' vote would grant the committee a new mandate, allowing them to continue their efforts until August 2026.
Is the government doing enough to address the concerns of resident doctors? Should they prioritize resolving the jobs crisis and pay erosion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more details on the strike action and the resident doctors' campaign, visit the provided link.
