Warwick Hospital hit by second day of junior doctor strike

Junior doctors have walked out at Warwick Hospital for the second day as part of an ongoing dispute over conditions and working hours.
The junior doctor strike at Warwick HospitalThe junior doctor strike at Warwick Hospital
The junior doctor strike at Warwick Hospital

A hospital spokesperson said there have been 14 clinics and one elective surgery list cancelled as a result of the strike which began at 8am on Wednesday February 10.

The second day of strike was agreed after contract talks ended without agreement with only emergency care provided by junior doctors during the day.

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Johann Malawana, chair of the British Medical Association’s junior doctors committee said: ‘Today’s action is a resounding rejection of the Government’s threat to impose an unfair contract, in which junior doctors have no confidence.

“We deeply regret the disruption caused to patients, but this is a fight for the long-term delivery of high-quality patient care, for junior doctors’ working lives and for ability of the NHS to rise to the enormous challenges facing it.”

Warwick county councillor, John Holland (Lab), who showed support for the strike on Wednesday morning, said it was clear the team in the town had “widespread support” from residents.

Leamington councillor, Matt Western said: “The issue is simple. There is insufficient capacity and resources today to fully deliver five-day, let alone seven-day working.

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“I was lucky to be looked after by some of these junior doctors when I was admitted to hospital. They’re a great bunch who deserve the public’s support for their untiring effort and professionalism.”

Charles Ashton, Medical Director at Warwick Hospital said they were working with the medical association to ensure that patient safety was not affected.

He said: “During the industrial action, consultants and other staff who are not taking part will be working to ensure there is no impact on any of our emergency services.

“We will need to reduce some non-urgent outpatient or clinic appointments.

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Patients should attend their appointment unless they are contacted by the Trust directly. If you are unable to attend your appointment please contact the hospital as soon as possible so that this slot can be offered to another patient.”