UK NHS News

Record 2.43M A&E Attendances in March 2026, Five-Year Waiting Time Low

NHS England reported that A&E departments saw a record 2.43 million attendances in March 2026, 16,000 more than the previous high in May 2024, driven in part by a meningitis outbreak mid-month. Despite the surge, 77.1% of patients were seen within four hours—the best performance since July 2021—with ambulance response times averaging 26:18 for the most serious incidents. The total waiting list fell to 7.22 million, a decrease of 31,006 from January and over 400,000 since July 2024, while 80.5% of suspected cancer patients received a diagnosis or all-clear within 28 days.

1.2 Million Eligible for NHS Wegovy to Cut Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

NICE published draft guidance recommending semaglutide (Wegovy) as a treatment option for people with cardiovascular disease who are overweight or obese (BMI 27 or higher) and have previously had a heart attack, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease. The NHS has struck a deal making the treatment cost-effective, with approximately 1.2 million eligible patients in England able to receive the weekly injection from summer 2026. Clinical trial data showed a 20% reduction in serious heart problems compared to placebo.

Spring COVID-19 Vaccinations Now Available for Millions of Vulnerable People in England

The NHS spring COVID-19 vaccination programme has launched, offering doses to eligible adults aged 75 and over, care home residents, and people who are immunosuppressed. Appointments are available daily at GP practices and community pharmacies across England, with booking options via the NHS App, NHS website, walk-in sites, or by calling 119. As of March 2023, COVID-19 vaccines had saved an estimated 475,000 lives in England and Scotland according to a study cited in the COVID-19 Inquiry.