NHS demand hits new heights

Responding to the latest performance figures from NHS England the chief executive of NHS Providers, Daniel Elkeles said: 

"NHS staff have worked incredibly hard over the summer delivering more tests, more checks and more treatment - but the demand for care just keeps on growing.

"We can’t go on like this. We need to do more to prevent illness and catch problems before they get worse.

"That’s what the 10-year health plan sets out to achieve, and trusts are working towards that goal, often with impressive results. But it takes time.

"There’s a more immediate challenge, to ensure timely, high quality care through the busy months of winter – in hospitals, mental health, community and ambulance services.

"All the signs are it’s going to be very tough, as demand hits new heights.

"The NHS has plans in place to deal with the pressures, but the public can play their part as well.

"It’s really important that people who are eligible get themselves vaccinated as a vital line of defence against the winter bugs."