NHS Scandal: Underqualified Nurses and PAs Threaten Patient Safety Amid Staff Shortages, Wes Streeting Urged to Act

Jul 14, 2024, 08:09 AM

The NHS is facing a significant scandal involving the employment of underqualified nurses and physician associates (PAs) to fill gaps left by a shortage of doctors. This practice has raised serious concerns about patient safety, with the British Medical Association (BMA) labeling it a 'huge threat.' Hospitals are reportedly using PAs to treat seriously ill and pregnant patients due to the lack of qualified doctors. The issue has been exacerbated by a staggering shortfall in NHS staff, leading to record numbers of patients waiting for tests. Calls for immediate action have been directed at the current government and Wes Streeting to address this critical situation. Additionally, PAs are being used to cover doctors' rotas.