A Kent student has been avoiding making a call to the GP and a visit to the hospital despite having stomach issues for two years.
Ahmed Alhakem, student, university of Kent, has spent his two years in university worried about his health.
This comes as NHS waiting lists have hit a record high with almost 7.8 million people on hold for treatment.
Meanwhile doctors fear with winter approaching, reducing the waiting times will be a challenge and warn it could go on for several years.
With the NHS waiting lists hitting a record high since 2007, Ahmed admits the fear of a long wait has kept him from seeking the care that he needs.
But it’s not just Ahmed who’s patiently waiting to see a doctor. According to NHS England, almost 9,000 patients have waiting more than 18 months for routine treatment.
And while the government blames the ongoing doctors strikes as playing a significant role in contributing to the delays, doctors disagree.
Dr Julian Spinks, general practitioner based in Medway, said:
In response, colleague voiced up this statement by a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care:
“Cutting waiting lists is one of the government’s top priorities.
“We’ve exceeded our target to deliver 10,00 virtual beds and are investing in an extra £200 million to support the NHS during winter.”
For now, doctors urge patients to continue to seek care if they are experiencing health concerns.