Industrial Relations Effects of English Health Care Reforms on Doctors

Doctors are central to the provision of health care. In England, doctors have been part of and have dealt with the National Health Service for over 45 years. This study looks at recent changes within and outside the National Health Service and their effects on the industrial relations system and outcomes for doctors. The changes include structural reforms imposed by government, changes resulting from dissatisfaction of junior doctors, and reforms advocated by the European Community. A principal finding is that the changes may potentially affect almost every aspect of employment and working conditions of doctors and of the professional and bargaining organizations that represent them. In particular, the changes may alter the existing relationships in doctors' ranks and between hospitals and senior doctors. Hence, the stability and uniformity of the industrial relations system are threatened.