NHSE tells trusts to deliver 95% of planned activity during doctors’ strike
Trusts should deliver at least 95 per cent of planned elective activity during the forthcoming five-day resident doctor’s strike, according to NHS England chief executive Sir Jim Mackey.
In a letter to trust and integrated care board CEOs, he also says a “predicted spike” of flu expected immediately after the strike action makes it essential the service recovers as quickly as possible.
The letter, seen by HSJ, begins by stating: “Frustratingly, the British Medical Association has confirmed their planned strikes for next week will go ahead from 7am on Friday 14 November to 7am on Wednesday 19 November.”
The NHSE chief executive writes: “Reducing volumes of bookings, rescheduling appointments and other activity should only happen in exceptional circumstances to safeguard patient safety. This should be undertaken in consultation with your NHS England regional chief operating officer.”
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Source: HSJ, 10 November 2025