The NHS cancellations are having a severe impact on people’s health, according to a watchdog.

A report by Healthwatch England reveals that delays and cancellations of vital NHS appointments, procedures, and surgeries are causing catastrophic health impacts on patients. With a record 7.5 million people waiting for routine hospital treatment, the highest number since 2007, approximately 385,000 patients have been waiting for more than a year. Last-minute cancellations are worsening patients’ conditions and negatively affecting their mental health, with some enduring multiple cancellations and postponements despite severe pain.

In 2022-23, there were thousands of cancelled operations in England, while strikes led to a significant number of postponed medical appointments and procedures. Recently, the British Medical Association announced a four-day strike by junior doctors in England over pay disputes, with the strike set to begin on August 11th.

A recent survey conducted by Healthwatch revealed that 39% of people in England who had appointments cancelled in 2023 experienced multiple cancellations or postponements. The study included individuals whose scheduled appointments ranged from pre-planned hospital care to diagnostic tests and community health appointments.

A recent study by Healthwatch revealed that approximately 18% of people have had their medical appointments cancelled at the last minute. This has resulted in various negative consequences, such as continuing pain, worsening symptoms, and disrupted sleep. Shockingly, 52% of individuals have not received any support in managing their medical conditions during this prolonged wait for care. Additionally, 79% reported minimal to no assistance from the NHS regarding their mental health. Certain groups, including unpaid carers, neurodivergent individuals, those with lower incomes, and people from minority ethnic backgrounds, seem to be more adversely affected. The chief executive of Healthwatch England, Louise Ansari, expressed concern over the significant health impacts caused by the ongoing delays in care.

The last answer highlighted the challenge of health inequalities faced by certain groups who struggle to access specialist healthcare. It emphasized the impact of ongoing appointment cancellations on these individuals, further exacerbating their symptoms and mental health issues. Urgent measures are needed to reduce cancellations and address the widening health disparities.

“With industrial action in the NHS being one of the many factors impacting people’s ability to access timely care, we are also renewing our call for all parties to reach a resolution to mitigate the impact of strikes on patients.”

The strikes in NHS England over the past eight months have had a significant impact, but the staff are doing their best to manage the disruption.