New figures have shed light on the significant salaries earned by some NHS consultants, raising eyebrows as strike actions loom. One senior doctor in the Midlands reportedly received

£489,500 in 2020, nearing the £500,000 mark. Additionally, two other top-paid consultants in the Midlands and London earned £386,000 and £385,500, respectively.

Surprisingly, nearly one-tenth of the consultant workforce earned over £165,000, equivalent to the salary of the Prime Minister. These findings have surfaced as consultants prepare to stage a two-day strike in pursuit of higher pay.

While the average basic pay for full-time equivalent consultants stands at £104,357, further analysis reveals that their earnings can reach £126,125 per year when factoring in overtime, medical awards, and geographic allowances. This is a notable increase from the average salary, and consultants have the opportunity to engage in private work during strikes, further bolstering their income.

The upcoming strikes, following a five-day walkout by junior doctors, raise concerns about disruptions in the NHS. Hospital services could be severely affected, impacting the treatment of "many thousands" of patients and posing a significant risk to hospitals.

NHS Digital data for 2020 reveals that out of England's 48,000 consultants, 12 earned more than £350,000, while approximately 600 consultants made over £200,000. The total earnings include not only basic salaries but also additional bonuses and overtime payments.

The revelation of high salaries has sparked public debate, with some questioning the timing of consultants' strike demands. Critics argue that consultants already enjoy substantial pay and perks and should prioritize patient care over politics. Moreover, concerns are raised about the increasing waiting lists, difficulties in accessing GP appointments, and untreated illnesses affecting patients who depend on the NHS.

In response to the impending strikes, the Department of Health and Social Care expressed disappointment and called the data outdated. The department emphasized the 4.5% pay uplift consultants received last year and the benefits from pension taxation changes announced in the spring Budget. They urged the British Medical Association (BMA) to resume negotiations instead of proceeding with the proposed strike dates.

The strike actions by consultants, combined with those of junior doctors, could lead to the cancellation of over 300,000 appointments, exacerbating the already significant waiting lists in the NHS. The BMA maintains that a credible pay offer from the government is necessary to avoid strikes, while the government highlights the potential impact on patient care and the contradiction of consultants treating private patients during industrial action.

With the possibility of all four types of doctors being in dispute with the government, the head of the BMA has warned of potential clashes over pay and conditions, which could intensify in the run-up to a general election.