Why Doctors are Striking in the UK - A Doctor's Perspective

Let's discuss one of the most pressing issues in the UK today - the ongoing junior doctor strikes. This episode is inspired by a lively debate I had during a recent trek with a gentleman who was curious about the reasons behind these strikes. As a junior doctor myself, I found it essential to use my platform to dispel some common misunderstandings and shed light on why 98% of junior doctors are joining the strike.

In this video, I provide a first-hand account of what it's like to be a junior doctor in the NHS, addressing the misconception that doctors are just trainees earning a "decent wage". I outline the exhaustive journey it takes to become a consultant, with 7-9 years of training following a 2-year foundation program, on top of a 5-year medical school course. Moreover, I highlight the startling reality of a 28% pay cut experienced by junior doctors in the last decade.

I'm here to clarify the critical distinction between a "junior doctor" and a "trainee". Despite the title, a junior doctor can be any non-specialist or consultant, regardless of age or training status. This pay issue doesn't merely affect newly graduated doctors but rather, a vast section of the medical community.

Beyond the personal perspective, I take a critical look at the national health care system, including the planned tripling of Physician Assistants (PAs) and ANPs, who enjoy higher wages despite not having attended medical school. By drawing comparisons, I strive to highlight the glaring pay disparity and its potential implications for the future of medical staffing in the UK.

Remember, this fight is not about entitlement, but about respect, recognition, and fair compensation for our dedication and invaluable contributions. Through real-world examples and comparisons, I hope to provide a clearer picture of why these strikes are happening, and why it's more critical than ever to support the junior doctors' fight for a fair wage.

⚡️Timestamps:
00:00 Argument with a fellow trekker
01:19 Intro
02:18 Who’s a “Junior Doctor”
02:46 Pay cuts
03:40 What are we asking for?
04:23 “But the Government doesn’t have the money to pay you more”
06:21 Final thoughts
07:21 Bloopers

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WHO AM I?👨‍⚕️
Hi👋🏼 My name is Ajay, I'm an Indian doctor working in London. I make videos about junior doctor lifestyle, finances, productivity and some medical entertainment peppered in between.

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