Navigating the NHS: How patients are affected by delays (The Guardian, 2 December 2022)

Summary

Patients are facing increased delays at almost every stage of their NHS treatment, as the health system struggles to find the resources to deal with demand.

The latest data shows waiting lists across England have surpassed record highs every month for two years running, one of many major challenges currently facing the NHS.

But what impact does this have on ordinary people trying to access the NHS in 2022?

Through a combination of interviews with health professionals and analysis of official data, the Guardian has plotted the journeys of four fictional patients through their NHS journey and how waiting times have changed at each stage of their treatment and recovery.