Healthwatch England - The end of strikes will be a relief to patients

The British Medical Association, which represents doctors, has announced that its members have agreed to a deal to end industrial action which started in March 2023. 

According to the Government, industrial action in the NHS has led to over 1.5 million appointments being cancelled.

Responding to the news, Louise Ansari, Chief Executive of Healthwatch England said: 

"After so many months of uncertainty, the news that junior doctors have agreed to end industrial action will greatly relieve patients and their loved ones. 

"The cumulative effect of strikes in the NHS has had the greatest impact on those who use services. Patients, especially those waiting for care, have faced delays and cancellations and have often had to deal longer than necessary with pain and other symptoms.  

"With the NHS facing such enormous challenges, the NHS needs as much capacity as possible to get on top of the issues it faces. The focus must be now on ensuring more people get faster access to care and, if they have to wait, are effectively supported while they do so."