cvd - NHS waiting times, 25th Oct 2021

Caused by the Covid-19 pandemic over-loading NHS hospitals, making them less able to cope with more routine matters. For example, social distancing requirements has greatly reduced capacity in out-patients departments, so people are waiting longer for non-urgent appointments & treatments. Additionally, GPs have a similar problem at their surgeries and although they are still making just as many referrals, so unless the situation is urgent, waiting lists are longer.
People have been putting off seeing their doctor - sometimes for long periods - and then their situation becomes urgent ... a vicious circle.
.
.
Not my Image : Fair Use & Public Information