After a dispute overpay and working conditions, doctors at major public hospitals across Melbourne are set to strike for the first time in 20 years later this month.

The Australian Medical Association Victoria says the four-hour strike will take place on Thursday, August 13, and will affect hospitals in Melbourne’s CBD and Parkville, including the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Royal Children’s and Women’s Hospitals.

The association also says emergency departments and other critical frontline services will continue to operate to ensure patient safety is not compromised.

AMA Victoria president Dr Simon Judkins says doctors have been trying to negotiate a better pay deal for the past year but have failed to reach a solution.

He says many doctors are experiencing high workloads and stress, raising concerns about the risk of medical errors.

The dispute highlights the ongoing challenges facing Victoria’s public health system, with the two sides yet to reach a pay deal.