Prof Derek Bell, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, which represents physicians across the UK, has called for urgent talks to avoid further industrial action over the junior contract in England. He said:
“Throughout the dispute on the junior doctors’ contract, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh has maintained that a negotiated solution is the only way to secure the long-term sustainability of the NHS.
“The safety of our patients and the wider NHS workforce remains paramount, and this long-running dispute benefits no one.
“We are concerned that the industrial action proposed will have a significant impact for patients and all healthcare professionals in the NHS. The timing of the proposed industrial action - so soon after the August changeover with many junior doctors new in post and heading towards the winter months - and the sustained nature of the action will heap pressure on a health system that is already struggling to deal with existing pressures and rota gaps. The proposed notice will also make it extremely difficult for hospitals to arrange cover. We hope that this action can be avoided.
“We continue to share the concerns of junior doctors in relation to the contract and recognise the impact it will have on the stability and morale of this vital group of doctors.
“If we are to deliver the highest standards of care that our patients rightly expect, this dispute needs to be resolved with the utmost urgency.
“All parties must get back together to facilitate a solution. We call on the Prime Minister to lead on this to avoid further strike action for the sake of our NHS.”
ENDS
Contact: Lisa Rooke, RCPE - 0131 247 3688 / 07717 895628 / l.rooke@rcpe.ac.uk (link sends e-mail)
