As per reports, the National Health Service (NHS) is preparing for significant disruption as resident doctors (formerly junior doctors) are expected to go on a prolonged strike from 0700 hours local time (0700 hours UTC) on Wednesday (17 December) and may continue until 0700 hours local time (0700 hours UTC) on Monday (22 December).

• This walkout comes at a critical period for the NHS, which is already under severe strain due to a widespread flu epidemic combined with routine winter pressures. To safeguard patients, NHS trusts plan to rely on contingency measures and strategies previously implemented during periods of industrial action.
• The British Medical Association (BMA), representing resident doctors, is proceeding with the action after negotiations with the government collapsed. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has stated that the strike appears intended to cause ‘maximum disruption’ during a period when the NHS is already facing elevated patient demand driven by high flu cases.
• This will be the third strike by resident doctors in 2025, following walkouts in July and November. The Health and Social Care Secretary had requested a delay until January to protect patient safety over the holidays, but the BMA rejected this request.
• The strike follows the rejection of a government proposal issued on 08 December, which included prioritising UK medical graduates for training posts through emergency legislation, increasing speciality training posts, and covering out-of-pocket expenses such as exam fees.