The NHS is in Crisis - But Why?
Here’s a brief breakdown
The crisis is palpable. It really is..
In my half a decade working in the NHS this is probably the worst I’ve seen it. We got a hint of how bad this winter would be during summer 2022 where hospital admissions were incredibly high. I actually talk about this in this video. It was peculiar at the time but certainly a “mild” indicator of the crisis we currently face.
It’s difficult to make sense of this. In my A&E department there are patients waiting more than 24 hours for a hospital bed. Ambulances are being diverted and patients are being seen in every corner of the department. Primary care is also overrun and despite public anger towards GPs, they are trying their hardest!
So why are things so bad? I’ve been trying to make sense of why the NHS can’t cope with the demand and here are some findings (with tables).
The number of beds have halved over the last 30 years.
The population is growing rapidly which puts increasing pressure on the health service. The ONS predicts a population of 75 million by 2040.
The population is ageing. By 2030 there are expected to be 44 over 65s for every 100 people.
Lack of social care funding has caused care homes to close. Almost 25-30% of all inpatients are medically fit for discharge.
All of this had led to some catastrophic outcomes including:
overcrowding in emergency departments.
Delays in life threatening interventions. The other day we had to wait 2.5 hours for a STEMI to be transferred for primary PCI.
Breakdown in relationship between patients and staff.
Reduced staff morale. I’m so tired.
This is an evolving space but understanding why the NHS is suffering is vital.
Increasing population pressures along with a reduction not just in NHS funding but also social care has created a “perfect storm” for the collapse of a historic and pioneering health system. The current flu, covid and RSV triple threat has also made things worse.
Let us know your thoughts and experiences about working in the NHS at this testing time. How have you found it?
Until next time!
Check out our latest podcast with Mo who draws on his academic background to explain the structure of the NHS. This is an insightful episode for anyone who wishes to trace the development of the national health service.
You can watch it here.
Finally, it’s not too late to book onto our OSCE Masterclass. If you’re a physician associate due to sit your nationals, our face to face course will give you an excellent opportunity to practice your skills to help you pass.
Be sure to use the code HOLIDAY10 to get a discount on your booking. You can book here.
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