UK: National Health Service workers to organize strike throughout England, Sept. 19-23

Event

Unionized National Health Service personnel plan industrial action across England, Sept. 19-23, to demand increased pay. The British Medical Association (BMA) will lead a strike of consultant-level doctors and junior doctors. Consultants will strike on Sept. 19-20, guaranteeing a minimal level of care. Junior doctors will strike on Sept. 20, guaranteeing a minimal level of care, and on Sept. 21-23, staging a full walkout. Essential emergency medical services will remain available throughout the strike. The impact of the strike will vary by location.

The strikes will likely prompt disruptions to healthcare services, including a reduction in available services and cancelations of routine appointments. Disruptions could persist following strike days as medical facilities deal with a backlog of patients. Demonstrations outside medical facilities are possible and may prompt localized transport and business disruptions.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments in England Sept. 19-23. Avoid all protests that may materialize. Heed instructions from authorities.