Guidance

So the junior doctor's strike is almost certainly going ahead. Which puts DZ, as someone who does a little agency work from time to time, in something of a dilemma. He is very much supportive of the juniors and their action. They should strike, absolutely, and if DZ were in a substantive consultant post he would be keen to facilitate their action.

There is a strong likelihood that DZ will be asked to work one the days that action is taken. So does he refuse such offers as a gesture of support, or does he accept the work, at high agency rates to cause Hunt one more small financial pinprick.

Any views?

Wanking again

Staying on the other side of the Atlantic, DZ has in the past commented on the bizarre attitude towards masturbation exhibited by some of the fringe religions over there. Well it's not just the fringe as this statement from the "United States conference of catholic bishops" demonstrates.

............................... other sins in addition to those already mentioned, especially masturbation. Masturbation, which is deliberate, erotic stimulation often to the point of orgasm, commonly occurs together with pornography use. While popular culture largely sees it as acceptable, masturbation is always gravely contrary to chastity and the dignity of one's body. Like other sins against chastity, it seeks sexual pleasure outside of the mutual self-giving and fruitful intimacy of spouses in marriage, in this case, even outside of any relationship at all. In addition, engaging in masturbation has powerful neurological effects that can make it into a highly addictive behavior. However, true freedom from this destructive habit is possible with the grace of Christ."

DZ had always subscribed to Woody Allen's view of wanking, that it's "safe sex with someone you love" but apparently not. Even the view that DZ had thought long discredited, that wanking causes mental health issues is promoted. It must be true obviously, this is the catholic church talking. And they do so have the moral high ground.

Dear future doctor

DZ has been sent a video by some Medical Students in the USA. I think it's just as appropriate over here. Enjoy. And thank you Laura.

Interesting times

So the results of the junior doctor's ballot is now out. A 99% vote for full industrial action is utterly stunning and strike action is now inevitable given the intransigence of Hunt. Hunt is becoming increasingly beleaguered and desperate and even parliamentary watchdogs have criticised his recent blatant lying. I have no doubt that the oppressive and threatening stance of the GMC on the matter is a result of Hunt influencing the head bully.

Fuck him! Tell me Dickson, which of the 37,000 or so doctors who voted to strike are you going to have a go at? Are you going to pick out a few as an example or every single one?

Looking at Hunt's proposals for a new Consultant contract it looks as if he hasn't learned a thing. Same old demands for more work for less pay, with threats to impose if no agreement. And same old unbelievable tripe. If you cut the starting salary and the top rate of pay, and abolish higher awards, how is that cost neutral?

I have little doubt that the new found unity of seniors and trainees will continue. Most Consultants fully support their trainees in the current situation, because looking at things, it's our turn next to take on a hostile government.

Unless government learn in the meantime.

Unity

Say what you like about Jeremy Hunt. He has one achievement that no other health minister has ever equaled. He has managed to unite the entire medical profession. 

Liberty and privacy

Orwell's 1984 is about to get a step closer.

Inevitably the government argue these measures are necessary in the interests of our safety.

“They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.”

                                         Benjamin Franklin