Hot weather adds to NHS pressures

Responding to the red heat-health alerts for six regions in England issued by the UK Health Security Agency, the chief executive of The NHS Alliance, Sir Ciarán Devane, said:

"Very hot weather poses problems for patients, staff and the wider health service.

"Years of under-investment means much of the NHS estate is too dilapidated, outdated or ill-equipped to deal well with heatwaves, making it harder to ensure a safe, comfortable and smooth-running clinical environment.

"Last month’s hot weather coincided with a surge in demand for care, and this time the temperatures look set to stay higher for longer.

"Staff will do all they can to ensure patients get the care they need.

"But there is a lesson as these hot spells become more frequent.

"The government must continue to boost capital investment, and it should open up access to other sources of capital to support good care and improved productivity."