NSW Health Apologises After Email Sparks Doctor Fatigue Concerns
25 May 2026
The email told junior doctors that struggling with standard hospital rosters was “not a great indicator for longevity” in the profession. It also reminded staff that medicine involves after-hours and night shifts because healthcare operates 24 hours a day.
The message caused backlash from doctors who said it ignored growing concerns about burnout, fatigue, and unsafe working conditions in hospitals.
Dr Madeleine Wilkie described the comments as outdated and said they reflected a broader problem within the health system.
She said doctors should not be expected to work extreme hours as a normal part of the profession and warned that ongoing pressure can affect both doctor wellbeing and patient care.
A spokesperson for the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District said the email did not reflect the district’s commitment to supporting junior medical officers and confirmed senior staff had since met with doctors to discuss rostering improvements.
The issue has added to ongoing concerns about conditions in NSW hospitals, with medical organisations continuing to call for safer working hours and better staffing support.
Dr Nicholas Spooner said doctors are facing increasing pressure due to staff shortages and underinvestment in the public health system.
A recent survey by the Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation NSW found many hospital doctors are regularly working long hours, with some missing the required rest breaks between shifts.
The report also showed many junior doctors are considering leaving NSW or moving overseas because of workload pressures.
NSW Health Apologises After Email Sparks Doctor Fatigue Concerns
Source: newsGP