Is the NHS ready for a four-day week?

Gomes, P., Fontinha, R. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2390-098X, Burchell, B., Morin, A., Skordis, J., Pita Barros, P. and Vandoros, S. (2025) Is the NHS ready for a four-day week? British Medical Journal, 391. e085261. ISSN 1468-5833 doi: 10.1136/bmj-2025-085261

Abstract/Summary

KEY MESSAGES ● Studies from other sectors demonstrate the potential of a four-day week to improve service quality and efficiency and generate savings. However, benefits may not offset costs in a healthcare setting. ● Absenteeism, high staff turnover, and burnout that reduce service quality and increase healthcare costs are all likely to improve under a four-day week. ● Improved scheduling and team-based productivity could enhance efficiency, helping to maintain or improve delivery. If absenteeism, turnover and errors are reduced, savings may accrue. ● The NHS will need rigorous sector-specific evidence of the potential impact of a four-day week on workforce, service quality and productivity, as well as on its costs, risks and challenges, before considering implementation.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://centaur.reading.ac.uk/id/eprint/124009
Identification Number/DOI	10.1136/bmj-2025-085261
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Henley Business School > International Business and Strategy
Publisher	BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
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