Winter pressures on NHS

As winter approaches, there is a higher likelihood of people developing illnesses such as chest infections, the flu and increased blood pressure that could lead to other severe health related issues. This would therefore put a great amount of pressure on NHS services as demands increase significantly. There are many factors that make the winter a difficult season to combat, and it is important to understand the different aspects that cause the winter pressures and how the NHS can overcome them.

A report in March 2019 revealed that the NHS had struggled to meet key targets during the winter season. For example, hospitals are expected to admit, transfer or discharge at least 95% of patients within four hours of arriving at A&E, however this target was not met that year or within the last 5 years (Turton, 2019).

What causes the winter pressures?

Respiratory illnesses such as flu epidemics and the common cold usually occur during the winter. Even though they can be treated using home remedies and medications, there may be patients with other underlying health conditions who would require medical attention. There is also a high likelihood of increased sick absence rates for NHS staff thus leading to staff shortages; this can significantly affect the accessibility and availability of services to patients as they face long waiting times to be seen by a health professional.

How can the NHS manage the issue?

In addition to those discussed previously, there are many other factors that contribute to the winter pressures; therefore, it is important to minimise the impacts that they have on the quality of care that the patients receive. The NHS have already set out a plan for this winter to help tackle this issue; it includes upgrading 24-hour live data centres to manage the surges of demands and increasing accessibility of services to older and more vulnerable patients by strengthening same day emergency care. Vaccination programmes, e.g. flu jab rollouts, are also encouraged as they are a vital aspect of managing the health of those who are highly likely to be affected by the flu virus. There are also many community care services that are available for people facing complex needs or mental health issues, thus reducing the need for hospital admission and relieving the pressure on the NHS (NHS, 2024).

Efficient planning and systematic approaches to the issue could help reduce pressures on the NHS and ensure that the quality of care provided to patients is of a high standard.

Written by Varsana

Moderated by Adelene

References:

Fisher, E., & Dorning, H. (2016, February). Nuttfield Trust. Retrieved from Winter pressures: what's going on behind the scenes?: https://www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk/sites/default/files/2018-10/1540144602_qualitywatch-winter-pressures.pdf

NHS. (2024, September 16). NHS announces plans to prepare for busy winter period. Retrieved from NHS England: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2024/09/nhs-announces-plans-to-prepare-for-busy-winter-period/

Turton, C. (2019, February 14). Is the NHS working on thin ice this winter? Retrieved from The Health Foundation: https://www.health.org.uk/news-and-comment/blogs/is-the-nhs-working-on-thin-ice-this-winter