Public backs competitive pay for senior doctors, BMA says

Almost nine in 10 people believe competitive pay is important for recruiting and retaining senior doctors in the NHS, according to polling highlighted by the British Medical Association (BMA).

The findings come as consultants and specialist, associate specialist and specialty (SAS) doctors in England are being balloted on potential industrial action over pay and working conditions.

The poll found that 87% of respondents believe it is important for the Government to offer competitive pay to attract and retain senior doctors in the NHS.

Meanwhile, 89% said it was important for a highly experienced doctor, such as a consultant or SAS doctor, to oversee their treatment to ensure patient safety.

The BMA said the results highlight public support for senior medical staff amid concerns about recruitment and retention.

The union noted that consultant pay in England can be significantly lower than equivalent salaries in the Republic of Ireland and argued that this could increase the risk of doctors leaving the NHS.

Dr Shanu Datta and Dr Helen Neary, co-chairs of the BMA consultants committee, said: “Clearly the public value our most senior and expert doctors, and know we need to pay them competitively to keep them in the NHS, so why don’t our politicians agree?

“When they’re in hospital, patients and their loved ones rightly want to know they are safe under the care of a senior, experienced clinician. But without supporting and recognising consultants, we risk losing them and the invaluable expertise they provide to the NHS and patients.”