Number of people waiting over 12 hours remains “shockingly high” – SAM president (08 August)

Commenting on the latest NHS performance data released today (08 August), Dr Nick Murch, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, said: “This latest data demonstrates what a significant challenge the new government faces in trying to exit the crisis being experienced across the NHS – and particularly within urgent and emergency care.

“Despite the figures showing marginal improvements in some areas, this should not distract from the fact services are consistently at full capacity and any slight improvement is likely to be due to the time of year.

“The number of people waiting more than 12 hours in emergency departments remains shockingly high – 36,806 people suffered this in July which is 1,187 a day and up 57.3% on last year.

“Action to tackle this dire situation must be an absolute priority as those affected will be extremely vulnerable acute medical patients who are being subjected to degrading corridor care and inevitable harm despite the best efforts of staff.

“We know the fundamental problems of insufficient workforce and capacity continue to be the biggest threat to the recovery and future of the NHS and social care, with difficult decisions and investment required to deliver change.”