Doctors and nurses set to be forced to work during strikes under new plans to guarantee minimum service levels
DOCTORS and nurses face being forced to work during strikes under Government plans to guarantee minimum service levels.
Emergency and urgent care could be covered under new legal powers to maintain a “safety net” for patients needing treatment at a time of industrial action.
This week sees junior doctors and consultants coordinate walkouts — leading to cancellations for thousands of appointments and operations.
A consultation was launched earlier this year on introducing a minimum service across ambulance services.
Several sectors in the UK economy including fire and rescue services, education, transport and border security are among those covered by existing strike laws.
Health Secretary Steve Barclay said: “This week’s action will create disruption and misery for patients and NHS colleagues.
READ MORE ON NHS STRIKES
"These regulations would assure the public that vital health services will be there when they need them.
“Doctors who started their hospital training this year are receiving a 10.3% pay increase, with the average junior doctor getting 8.8% and consultants are receiving a 6% pay rise alongside generous reforms to their pensions, which was the BMA’s number one ask.
“In the face of ongoing and escalating strike action, we will continue to take steps to protect patient safety and ensure the health service has the staff it needs to operate safely and effectively.”