‘Flu message acted as smokescreen to fundamental problems’ says SAM president (16 January)
Commenting on the latest weekly sitrep data released today (16 January) by NHS England, Dr Nick Murch, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, said: “The latest weekly data from NHS England highlights how hospitals are “jampacked” but this should really be described as “overflowing” given the fact many patients will be receiving care in chairs and corridors.
“Politicians and senior leaders have put much focus in recent weeks on the impact of flu and flu admissions are down from their peak, but this line has also acted as a smokescreen to the fundamental problems.
“The only solutions to the eternal – and increasingly worse – problems in the NHS are to address the issues of capacity, workforce and social care, and to realise there will be no elective care recovery without a recovery in urgent and emergency care.”
More from SAM
More news, statements and updates from the Society for Acute Medicine.
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Acute Medicine in 2026
Dr Vicky Price, SAM President, presented on “Acute Medicine in 2026” at the Society for Acute Medicine’s 20th International conference, SAMGlasgow, on 8-9 October 2026.
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“Carrying an existing crisis into winter” – SAM president (20 October)
Commenting on a survey published today (20 October 2026) by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) which found 150 of the UK’s leading A&E doctors have said they are very worried about the pressure that Emergency Departments will face this winter, Dr Vicky Price, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, said: “The concerns…
Society for Acute Medicine
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