Fear Winter Pressure Will Derail Fightback

Winter pressures and further Covid-19 surges will derail plans to deal with the record NHS treatment backlog, health leaders warn.

- Martin Bagot

Last month the waiting list topped five million for the first time after non-urgent care in England was halted during the first lockdown.

NHS Providers received 155 responses to its survey from chief executives, chief operating officers and medical directors at 113 trusts. Some 73% were extremely or moderately concerned about disruption to clearing the NHS backlog. Their worries come as Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the NHS is preparing for a huge flu vaccination drive this winter.