Are you or your loved ones waiting for hospital care? Share your views
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many people having their operations, treatment and appointments cancelled or delayed.
The NHS had to postpone non-urgent elective care treatment when the pandemic hit, freeing up inpatient and critical care capacity. While this helped medical staff respond to the crisis, it has resulted in a huge backlog of people waiting for treatment.
The latest data shows that the number of people waiting for routine operations and procedures in England is at its highest level since 2007 – currently at 5.45 million.
Impact of delayed treatment
The impact of delayed treatment can be huge, potentially leaving you in pain and affecting both your physical and mental health. It can even stop you working and performing day-to-day tasks, such as cleaning, shopping and caring for others.
If you’re not getting enough support to manage your health while you wait for care, then that’s not acceptable.
