Responding to the announcement that 9 million more blood test tubes will be made available to the NHS to address current shortages, Dr David Wrigley, BMA council deputy chair, said:

"While more tubes may be on their way, doctors and their colleagues working on the ground need to know when they will arrive and indeed whether they will be enough to meet demand until we have access to regular supplies again – both of which currently remain unclear.

"There will be little relief for healthcare staff until the additional tubes arrive in practices and hospitals – before such time they are having to make incredibly difficult decisions about who gets a test and who doesn’t."

ENDS

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.

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