UNISON reacts to new research showing some patients are being forced to wait in ambulances outside hospitals for hours.
UNISON national officer, Hope Daley said:
“The cuts imposed on the NHS were bound to have a knock-on effect on the ambulance services and on patient safety. There are simply not enough staff in A&E, this means ambulances can’t hand over patients who need vital medical treatment.
“Things will only get worse as the winter pressures kick in. The ambulance service is currently running with a reduced number of staff and ambulances and there is a worrying high level of stress among paramedics who are trying their best to do their jobs and help patients in need of urgent medical attention.
“The A&E crisis is spiralling out of control, the pressures on medical staff are reaching breaking point and sadly this may start costing lives very soon.”
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