Cardiology Waits Leave Patients Living in Fear of Heart Attack
York, England – More than half of cardiology patients at York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are facing unacceptably long waits for treatment, leaving many living in constant fear of a heart attack, according to recent data. The delays, exacerbated by the pandemic and industrial action, are raising serious concerns about patient safety and mental wellbeing.
New figures from NHS England reveal that in August, only 45% of patients at the Trust began treatment within the 18-week target from referral – significantly below the national average of 61%. The target stipulates that 92% of non-urgent patients should start their first treatment within this timeframe.
“Ultimately, the longer someone waits for heart care the higher the risk of permanent heart damage, life long disability, or even dying prematurely – and that’s not acknowledging the mental health impact it can have on someone waiting a long time,” said Ruth goss, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation. The charity’s helpline is frequently contacted by worried patients experiencing these delays.
York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust acknowledged the issue, stating, “It’s well documented that the pandemic, coupled with industrial action, has impacted on NHS waiting times.” A spokesperson added that the Trust is “working hard to see patients as soon as we can and have made good progress reducing waiting times,” but conceded that some patients are waiting longer than desired, particularly for routine referrals.
The trust emphasized that patients are prioritized based on clinical need and urged individuals to contact their GP if their condition deteriorates or symptoms change. The latest NHS data is available here.
