The Royal College of Physicians has responded to the latest consultation of 'EU Social Partners' (EU level employer and employee organisations) on revision of the European Working Time Directive (EWTD).
The Patient and Carer Network has also produced a statement supporting the RCP position following a consultation of its members.
RCP believes that retaining the opt-out, finding solutions to the definition of "on-call" in light of European court judgements, and addressing the precise timing of compensatory rest (not always possible "immediately" as currently required) must form the cornerstone of a new more flexible EU approach to working time. A framework of common European objectives to protect doctors health and safety should also permit flexible local implementation to ensure good patient care where that care is delivered.