A JUNIOR doctor has admitted she “regrets” having to strike – but believes it could save the NHS.

Dr Nicola West, a third year junior doctor at North Middlesex University Hospital, said she wanted to tell the public exactly why she and her fellow professionals have decided to increase the impact of the strikes next week.

Another 48-hour strike is due to start at 8am on April 26, with doctors in emergency wards also walking out for the first time – although they will be covered by consultants.

Dr West, a gastroenterologist – someone who specialises in the stomach and intestines – said she was sorry for anyone who will have important appointments, test or operations rescheduled.

She said: “I want to assure patients that our hospital will be kept safe at this time. Our consultants are taking our place so that every doctor you see will not be a junior, but someone with over 10 years’ experience.

“We find the disruption very regrettable, an unfortunate consequence of the actions we are taking, but we are doing it to protect the NHS in the future.

“The vast majority of junior doctors in England are very unhappy with the contract that is being imposed by our government. We believe it is very unsafe for patients and unfair for doctors.

“The main aim of this contract is to allow the government to provide routine care on Saturdays and Sundays, rather than the emergency care we have at the moment; the problem is that there are no plans for more doctors, nurses, technicians, porters, cleaners or administrative staff to cover this extra work.

“We struggle already to provide emergency care and feel that adding to this workload and stretching current staff even further would be very dangerous for patients.”

She said the contract would result in doctors undertaking even more out of hours work for less pay, and also said the contract discriminates against women.

She said: “Women make up a larger percentage of doctors who work less than full time, often due to caring for their families.

“It will drive women out of the workforce as they simply will not be able to afford to go to work. This is a huge concern for equality, and unacceptable in 2016.

“I thank people for the support and kindness you have shown us during our pickets outside the hospital. I invite you to come and talk to us next week about the contract.

“We want an NHS that is safe and fair, both for our profession and our patients.”

A Department of Health spokesperson said: “This escalation of industrial action by the BMA is both desperate and irresponsible – and will inevitably put patients in harm’s way.”