Specialist doctors voted overwhelmingly in favor of industrial action in an indicative ballot. A formal strike vote is scheduled if there's no progress by November 6.
Separately, the BMA, representing junior doctors, has agreed to talks with the government next week. However, the government has stated that pay won't be on the table for discussion.
The strikes have led to over one million appointments and treatments, including cancer care, being postponed since December.
The dispute centers on pay and working conditions, with doctors feeling overworked and undervalued.
The government hopes these talks will resolve the issue but maintains that headline pay is not negotiable, as doctors have already received a recommended pay rise accepted in full.