Resident Doctors Strike Disrupts NHS Services Across Hampshire, Herts, Isle of Wight

Resident doctors across several NHS trusts in England, including Hertfordshire, West Essex, Isle of Wight, Hampshire, and Portsmouth, are set to undertake a five-day strike from July 25 to 30, impacting routine and emergency healthcare services. The British Medical Association members are striking over pay disputes, demanding a 29% pay rise, which has raised concerns about significant disruptions, with an estimated 250,000 appointments potentially canceled or postponed. Hospitals and integrated care boards are preparing for the strike by prioritizing emergency care, rescheduling non-urgent procedures, and urging patients to use health services appropriately to reduce pressure. While maternity and critical inpatient services will remain available, patients are advised to attend scheduled appointments unless contacted to reschedule. Health officials emphasize that emergency departments should be reserved for serious cases and encourage people to seek alternative care options when appropriate. The strikes have also been linked to financial strain on the NHS, with estimates suggesting up to £87 million in additional costs for consultant cover during the walkouts.