Thousands of resident doctors started a five-day strike across England today. The walkout began Friday morning and will run until Wednesday. This is the 13th such action since March 2023. The ongoing dispute over pay and jobs causes major disruption to the National Health Service (NHS).
The British Medical Association (BMA) represents the striking doctors. They demand a 26% pay increase. This figure would restore their earnings to previous real-terms value. The government and doctors’ representatives failed to reach an agreement. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the strikes are “unnecessary.”
NHS leaders warn this action puts immense pressure on hospital budgets. They fear the financial strain could force cuts to frontline staff. This would lead to even longer waiting times for patients. The strike comes at a difficult time as flu cases begin to rise. The NHS urges all patients to seek care as needed. Please attend scheduled appointments unless your hospital contacts you to reschedule. Use 111 online for urgent but non-life-threatening issues.
