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Recent findings from the British Social Attitudes survey indicate a significant decline in public satisfaction with the National Health Service (NHS), reaching a mere 21% in 2024. This is a stark contrast to 2019, when 60% of respondents expressed satisfaction. The primary concerns driving this dissatisfaction include prolonged waiting times and staff shortages, issues that have intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The survey, which has been a key barometer of public opinion regarding the health service since 1983, gathered insights from nearly 3,000 individuals across England, Wales, and Scotland in the previous autumn. It highlights a substantial drop in satisfaction across three essential NHS services: only 19% of respondents were satisfied with accident and emergency (A&E) services, down from 54% in 2019; satisfaction with dentistry fell from 60% to 20%; and GP services saw a decline from 68% to 31%.
Regionally, Wales reported the highest levels of dissatisfaction with the NHS. Furthermore, satisfaction with social care services, including care homes and home assistance, was alarmingly low, with only 13% of respondents indicating they were satisfied—a figure that has remained unchanged from the previous year.
In a recent interview, Sir Jim Mackey, the newly appointed chief executive of NHS England, expressed deep concern over what he described as a “growing disconnect” between the NHS and the public. He acknowledged the dismal satisfaction levels as a crucial warning sign, emphasizing that the service is fundamentally owned by the public it serves.
‘Frustrating Experiences’
The frustrations with NHS services are echoed in personal accounts from individuals like James Cullinane, 41, from Luton. He shared his difficulties in securing timely appointments for himself and his children, particularly for managing his son’s allergies. “They tell you to call back every morning, but there are seldom any appointments available,” he noted, revealing that he has turned to walk-in centers and the NHS 111 hotline for urgent care.
Another alarming account comes from Susan Quenby, a 68-year-old from York, who described her harrowing experience after being admitted to A&E with severe wounds that later turned out to be sepsis. She spent 17 hours in A&E before being admitted to a ward, where she faced inadequate care, noting the lack of bed sheet changes during her eight-day stay. “I was worried about contracting another infection,” she stated, highlighting serious concerns about cleanliness and patient care within the NHS.
‘Public Perceptions and Concerns’
The survey was conducted prior to last year’s budget announcement, which included increased funding for the NHS. However, over two-thirds of respondents believed that NHS funding was insufficient, and only 14% felt the NHS utilized its resources efficiently. Bea Taylor from the Nuffield Trust pointed out that despite earlier calls for public support during the pandemic, these findings reflect a critical dissatisfaction with the service’s current state.
Louise Ansari of Healthwatch England described the survey results as a significant reminder of the challenges the NHS faces. While many individuals appreciate the dedication of NHS staff, long wait times and accessibility issues have severely impacted public confidence in receiving timely care. Saffron Cordery, interim chief executive of NHS Providers, reiterated the necessity for radical changes to rebuild trust in the service.
In response to the survey, England’s Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, acknowledged the “broken” state of the NHS and remarked that sentiments expressed in the survey align with patients’ experiences. While he stated that additional investments are starting to yield improvements, he cautioned that meaningful changes would take time. He also referenced a forthcoming 10-year NHS plan, anticipated this summer, which aims to enhance the service’s standing.
Source
www.bbc.com