Public Satisfaction With The NHS Reaches An All-Time Low

Falling satisfaction: a growing crisis in the NHS

Public satisfaction with the NHS has hit a new low. The latest British Social Attitudes survey reveals just 21% are happy with the service in 2024. This is a sharp decline since the pandemic from 60% in 2019. Waiting times and staff shortages are the biggest concerns.

A sharp decline in key services

The BSA survey, which has been tracking public sentiment since 1983, shows dramatic drops in satisfaction with three core NHS services:

Worsening conditions in social care

Satisfaction with social care is even lower, at just 13%. This includes services like care homes and home help. The situation is troubling, as these services are crucial to many.

The impact of staff shortages

Staff shortages are a key factor in the NHS crisis. Sir Jim Mackey, NHS England’s new CEO, voiced concern over the “disconnect” between the service and the public. Long waiting times and inadequate care are eroding public trust.

Real-life stories of frustration

Many patients are feeling the strain. James Cullinane, a patient from Luton, shared his struggles to get a GP appointment.

Susan Quenby, from York, described her “horrific” ordeal waiting 17 hours in A&E before being treated for sepsis. Stories like these show the human cost of the NHS crisis.

Public confidence in NHS funding

Despite the Government’s increased spending on the NHS, the survey found many feel it’s not enough. Over two-thirds of people believe the NHS needs more funding. However, only 14% think the NHS is using its current resources effectively.

Enduring support for NHS values

Despite growing dissatisfaction, most people still support the NHS’s core principles: free at the point of use, available to all, and funded by taxation. This support remains strong, even as people become more frustrated with the service.

Calls for urgent reform

Health leaders are calling for action. Louise Ansari from Healthwatch England said the survey is a “sobering reminder” of the NHS’s challenges. Saffron Cordery from NHS Providers also urged for “radical action” to restore public trust.

A long road ahead

Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the NHS is “broken.” While improvements are underway, he said it will take time. The upcoming 10-year NHS plan aims to address these issues.

Opinion

The decline in public satisfaction with the NHS highlights the need for urgent reform.

While funding is crucial, it’s equally important to ensure resources are used effectively and the system is modernised to meet growing demand.

The public still supports the NHS’s core values, but without significant changes, trust in the service will continue to erode.

It’s clear immediate action is needed to restore confidence and address the systemic issues that are undermining the NHS.