Junior doctor thanks public for support

A junior doctor has sent a heartfelt message of thanks to supportive patients who are standing by medics during their dispute with Government. Writing in the Swindon Advertiser before a two-day strike which saw junior doctors withdraw from hospitals — with consultants and senior medics filling the gaps — Charis Banks (pictured) said industrial action was the ‘last resort’ for staff and thanked the public for sticking by them. The 34-year-old, who will begin training as a specialist anaesthetist in August, said: ‘As doctors our place is not outside on the picket line, but inside the hospital, treating patients. 'I know I speak for all my colleagues when I say that we would much rather be on the wards. 'Unfortunately, the Government has shown that it will not listen to protests, petitions, letters or even warnings from patient groups and the medical royal colleges. ‘This is a last resort for us and we would not be striking if we could think of any other option. ‘I want to express my deepest and most heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us so far. 'We have been so grateful during the previous strikes to all those who have offered support or wanted to talk to us about why we feel the need to take these steps. ‘Thank you for your trust that we wouldn't be doing this if we didn't think it was important for the future of doctors and the whole NHS to have a contract that is safe and fair.’   'Never seen so man...
Source: BMA News - Category: UK Health Source Type: news