Search the website

BMA survey of junior doctors working arrangements and the European Working Time Directive

Final report
February 2008

Background
The BMA Junior Doctors Committee undertook research to ensure that members’ views are represented in future campaigns on changes to working hours and to provide members with an opportunity to influence BMA policy on a vital issue for junior doctors.

The next phase of the European Working Time Directive (EWTD) arrangements will be implemented in all employers across the UK in 2009. The BMA is aware that one of the most crucial areas for junior doctors is their training and we believe the European Working Time Directive may have an impact on the quality of training received in the future. Junior doctors’ views were sought to help the JDC assess the effect the new arrangements may have on junior doctor training, professional work, the delivery of patient care and work/life balance.

Method
A postal survey ‘BMA survey of junior doctor working arrangements and the European Working Time Directive’ was sent to 3000 BMA members on 8 February 2008.

This report represents all responses received up to 12 noon on 24 March 2008. The recipients were all members entered under junior doctor membership categories on the 8 February 2008.

Completed surveys were returned by 470 respondents between 8 February and 24 March 2008. This represents a response rate of 16 per cent (470 in 3000 respondents).

The percentages reported throughout this report are for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of wider trends within the population. The responses have been reported as a numerical value of the total responses received and are indicated after each percentage stated.

The values reported throughout this document are only representative of individuals’ views. Unless specified the values reported do not represent national, department or trust level data.

A full copy of the report can be downloaded in PDF format using the link on the right.