There are no quick fixes for the workforce crisis

After almost a year of industrial action by doctors in England, with several walkouts over recent months, there are signs that progress is being made towards avoiding further strikes. The government has agreed to hold talks with specialist, associate specialist, and specialty (SAS) doctors, junior doctors, and consultants (doi:10.1136/bmj.p2464 doi:10.1136/bmj.p2420).12But another dispute is also causing debate among doctors. Two extraordinary meetings taking place this month in the UK consider the role and scope of physician associates and anaesthesia associates in the NHS. The Royal College of Physicians was due to hold a council meeting this week to discuss growing concern among members and fellows (doi:10.1136/bmj.p2375).3 And the strength and depth of disquiet among doctors was shown at a general meeting of the Royal College of Anaesthetists on 17 October (doi:10.1136/bmj.p2460).4 Members voted to pass six resolutions, on a high turnout and with a large majority for each vote. These included…
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