BMA criticises ‘blunt tool’ budgetary cuts

The British Medical Association (BMA) has reiterated its concerns that the proposed budgetary cuts the government is planning for the health service will compromise patient care.

A spokesperson for the organisation has accused the coalition administration of proposing guidelines which adopt a “blunt tool” approach to cuts, which could prevent patients from accessing the treatments they require.

This warning comes in response to a recent report from the Royal College of Nursing which warns that almost 10,000 NHS jobs could be lost under the plans, which it fears will prove a regressive step for the health service.

The BMA spokesperson described the prospect of reductions in staff and services as being “very worrying”, stating that managers must now look to minimise the damage these cutbacks will have on patient care.

She stated that this can be achieved via close consultation between hospitals and the clinical staff who will be affected by changes to the system.

The spokesperson added: “Of course we want to improve efficiency, but we are worried that the guidelines are going to be too severe.”