British Medical Association

The British Medical Association (BMA) is a professional association and trade union representing doctors in the United Kingdom. It is currently newsworthy due to ongoing industrial action by resident doctors (formerly known as junior doctors) in England over pay and working conditions. These doctors have staged 15 strikes since March 2023, seeking "full pay restoration." Recent events include the failure of last-ditch talks to avert a six-day strike, the longest yet, which began after Easter. The BMA accuses the government of reducing its pay offer and sabotaging negotiations, while government officials and NHS bosses accuse the BMA of hypocrisy and causing "maximum harm" to patients. The dispute is politically charged, with accusations leveled against both the government and the opposition Labour party regarding their handling of the situation. The BMA's actions are significantly impacting NHS services and raising concerns about patient care.