GPs have threatened the possibility of industrial action over a contract that forces them to offer appointments at evenings and weekends. Medics at the British Medical Association (BMA) annual conference in Brighton called on BMA leaders to act upon a 2021 indicative ballot and “organise opposition” to the contract, “including industrial action if necessary”.
While GPs would be unlikely to stop providing emergency and urgent care, they could refuse to carry out other routine work and they could cut their hours. A new ballot would be needed for industrial action to happen, with more than 50% of eligible GP members voting in favour.
In March, NHS England announced changes to the 2022/23 GP contract, saying doctors needed to make at least 25% of appointments available for online booking while also extending opening hours. The changes mean GPs need to offer appointments from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays, as well as until 8pm on weekdays.
