The figures are bad, but we all need to play our part

THE ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic continues to be felt even though today marks exactly three months since the end of domestic restrictions in the UK.

During those long months of lockdown when hospitals were operating under severe restrictions – desperately trying to slow the spread of the killer virus – everything except the most urgent of operations was put on hold.

This was not a decision taken lightly, but it was the only realistic course of action open to hospitals across the country.

Unfortunately this did of course mean that the backlog of non-urgent operations was quietly building up in the background.

Living with pain or a chronic condition which requires surgery, but has been labelled ‘non-urgent’ can be tough at the best of times. And these past two years have been some way from the best of times.

Having record-breaking numbers of people waiting for treatment are the kinds of records no one wants to beat. It does put the hospital trusts in a difficult position, and the fact that our local figures are more-or-less in line with national trends is cold comfort.

As Dan Baylis, chief medical officer at Solent NHS Trust, says: ‘The restoration of services, including nonurgent treatment, scans and tests, and the reduction in the waiting times for our patients, is an absolute priority for us.’

While a great many of those unlucky to be on the waiting list are there through no fault of their own, the rest of us must do what we can to try and alleviate the pressures on the NHS. GP surgeries should remain the frontline contact – and yes, we are aware they have their own problems to contend with.

It is a difficult situation all round. But the alternative of a privatised health service is one that doesn't bear thinking about.