Are you or your loved ones waiting for hospital care? Share your views with Healthwatch Rochdale

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The number of people waiting for routine operations and procedures in England is at its highest level since 2007

If you have had treatment cancelled during the pandemic, Healthwatch Rochdale, the borough's independent healthcare watchdog, wants to hear from you.

The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in many people having their operations, treatment and appointments cancelled or delayed – and Healthwatch Rochdale is keen to know if you’re getting the advice, information and support you need while you wait.

The NHS had to postpone non-urgent elective care treatment when the pandemic hit, freeing up inpatient and critical care capacity. While this helped medical staff respond to the crisis, it has resulted in a huge backlog of people waiting for treatment.

The latest data shows that the number of people waiting for routine operations and procedures in England is at its highest level since 2007 – currently at 5.45 million.

A representative of Healthwatch Rochdale said: “The impact of delayed treatment can be huge, potentially leaving you in pain and affecting both your physical and mental health. It can even stop you working and performing day-to-day tasks, such as cleaning, shopping and caring for others.

“If you’re not getting enough support to manage your health while you wait for care, then that’s not acceptable.”

Healthwatch Rochdale is part of the Healthwatch national network which helps ensure local patients and users have a greater input to shaping, improving and designing local health and social care services.

Share your views here.