NHS ready for European Working Time Directive

NHS organisations are ready for the August 2009 UK deadline for introducing a 48-hour maximum working week and related hours controls for doctors in training. 

David Grantham, head of programmes at NHS Employers, said: “NHS organisations have told us consistently that they are ready for implementation of the European Working Time Directive for junior doctors, which begins 1 August 2009.  A total of 200 rotas out of 6,500 nationally have derogated in order to retain longer hours where it was not possible and more time was needed to prepare.  Where a service needs additional hours of cover individual doctors can voluntarily ‘opt-out’ of the 48 hour limit to provide this. 

NHS organisations have already been advised to discuss use of the opt-out with key staff where that might be needed as part of their flu pandemic preparations