The Power of Protest in Healthcare: Lessons From a Doctor’s Journey to Activism

"This was avoidable. These are unnecessary deaths. It's not a 'war'. This is a health crisis. This is systemic negligence." When Dr Meenal Viz, a heavily pregnant frontline NHS doctor, witnessed her colleagues die from the negligent handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, she was determined to take a stand. This trail-blazing account explores the influences that drive powerful protest through the story of Dr Viz's refusal to back down in the face of mounting pressure, prejudice, and adversity. It details her landmark legal case against the UK government which led to national changes to PPE guidelines and legal obligations around risk assessments for NHS staff. Dr Viz provides a beacon for healthcare professionals who are invested in social justice and want a realistic and honest understanding of what that means in actionable terms, stage by stage. Examples of protests and stories of activism from all walks of life are included, and the relationship between power, privilege, and personal circumstance is explored to help readers reflect on their own distinct ability in creating sustainable change.