Doctors across England have begun a five-day strike, with health officials warning that patients may face disruption to routine hospital services.
The walkout, which started early Wednesday morning, involves resident doctors, previously known as junior doctors, and marks the 14th strike action in the ongoing dispute over pay and working conditions. NHS leaders say the timing is particularly challenging due to increased hospital admissions caused by a seasonal surge in flu cases.
NHS England has warned that non-urgent appointments and planned treatments are likely to be delayed, although emergency care and GP services will continue to operate. Senior doctors have been asked to step in to maintain essential services during the strike period.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting criticised the action, saying it risks placing additional pressure on the NHS at one of its busiest times of the year. He said the government had attempted last-minute talks to prevent disruption but no agreement was reached.
The British Medical Association, which represents resident doctors, said patient safety remains a priority and that it is working with hospital managers to minimise harm during the strike.
Health officials have indicated that disruption may be greater than during previous walkouts, as hospitals also face staffing pressures linked to winter illnesses. Some hospitals have already announced temporary changes to emergency services, advising patients to seek care at nearby facilities when necessary.
Despite the strike, NHS England said urgent and emergency services will remain available and urged the public to use NHS 111 online for non-life-threatening issues. Patients requiring immediate care are advised to contact emergency services as usual.
Alongside the pay dispute, concerns have also been raised about limited training opportunities for doctors. Competition for specialist training posts has intensified, leaving many qualified doctors struggling to secure roles that allow them to progress in their careers.
Healthcare leaders have acknowledged the strain on both staff and patients, as negotiations between doctors’ representatives and the government continue.