Doctors struggling in fight against coronavirus

Thousands of doctors are battling exhaustion and anxiety after almost a year of fighting the coconavirus crisis, a new survey reveals.

A major new British Medical Association study indicates that 5 8% of doctors are now suffering from some form of anxiety or depression.

With 46% saying their condition had worsened since the start of pandemic.

Some 67% of doctors say current levels of fatigue and exhaustion are higher than normal as they tackle a mounting second wave and a growing backlog of care, on top of the usual seasonal demand.

BMA council chair Dr Cha and N ag paul issued a stark warning that the NHS needs more resources and staff if it is to remain fit for purpose and vaccinate the public effectively.

He said :“The months ahead will be as challenging, if not more so, than when the virus first peaked in April.

"Many are exhausted from working flat out without taking adequate leave for about 10 months.

“It’s vital that the vaccination programme is delivered as fast as humanly possible.

"So that both health and care workers and as much of the population can be immunised to relieve our health service from the scourge of Covid-19.

"This requires proper resourcing of staff, including GPs and primary care teams, who need to be given the space and time to vaccinate and protect the nation.”

A further 27% of doctors said they were now more likely to take early retirement.

And another 27% say they are more likely to take a career break.