New NHS head: I'm fearful for patients' safety

THE new chairman of the NHS has admitted he is "fearful" for patients during the upcoming six-day junior doctors' strike.

- Michael Knowles

Senior medics have warned that conditions such as cancer and heart disease will be missed because patients will avoid going to hospital during the walkout being staged from January 3 to 9.

Richard Meddings, in his first interview since becoming chair, said pressure "can't continue like this".

The strike on the most challenging week of the year for the NHS - is the longest ever seen by the health service and follows a three-day strike last week.

Mr Meddings said: "It just can't continue like this. The pressure on the NHS in normal times is significant and we're doing a lot about that. But in winter it's particularly acute and that's why I'm fearful is really difficult.

Actually, I am fearful for consefor Dire warning... Richard Meddings "Winter quences patients.