The NHS is facing criticism for restricting access to obesity services across England, with patients in nearly half the country unable to book appointments with specialist teams for support and treatments like weight-loss jabs. An investigation by the British Medical Journal found that budget cuts to local services have disproportionately affected obesity care, leading to a “postcode lottery of care” for patients.
Experts warn that the restrictions amount to the rationing of obesity services, with many local healthcare areas unable to provide bariatric surgery, one of the most effective treatments for obesity. Dr. Nicola Heslehurst of Newcastle University emphasized the urgent need for action to address rising obesity rates and associated healthcare costs.
The investigation revealed that more than a third of England’s integrated care boards reported restrictions on tier three obesity services, and nearly half did not offer any bariatric surgery. This lack of access to essential obesity treatments highlights the urgent need for government and NHS action to address the growing obesity crisis.
Richard Sloggett, author of a recent report on NHS obesity services, called for a clear timeline for reviewing and improving obesity services in each integrated care board. The NHS has acknowledged the need for improvements in the obesity pathway and is working with the Department of Health to address these issues.
The findings of these investigations underscore the pressing need for greater investment in and prioritization of obesity services in England to ensure equitable access to care for all patients.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com
