The NHS is unable to perform 1.5 million operations each year due to a critical shortage of anaesthetists, according to a comprehensive report by the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA). The UK faces a shortfall of 2,256 anaesthetists, the largest gap being among consultants, which accounts for 73% of the deficit. This shortage results in approximately 4,000 procedures being cancelled daily, exacerbating the already record-high waiting lists of over 8 million patients across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Impact on Patients and NHS Capacity
The report, seen by the Guardian, reveals that the scarcity of anaesthetists is causing painful delays for thousands of patients, many of whom experience deteriorating physical and mental health while waiting. Among patients surveyed, 31% reported a decline in mental health and 36% reported a decline in physical health. The delays also increase the likelihood of patients seeking financial compensation and reduce their ability to work.
Anaesthetists are essential for most surgical procedures, as well as for care in maternity wards, intensive care units, and pain services. The shortage limits NHS capacity and drives up costs, as hospitals must spend more on agency locums and staff redeployment. Clinical leaders interviewed for the report indicated that 88% have had surgeries postponed due to a lack of anaesthetists, with 43% reporting such cancellations daily or weekly.
Causes of the Shortage
While some anaesthetists are leaving the profession due to stress and workload, the primary cause is a lack of training places. Last year, there were 6,770 applications for only 539 core anaesthetic training positions. The number of anaesthetists has grown modestly in recent years but not enough to meet demand, resulting in a 16% shortfall against required staffing levels.
Call for Urgent Action
Dr. Claire Shannon, President of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, stated: “Patients are still waiting too long for surgery, and the shortage of anaesthetists is a major factor. Despite modest increases, the gap between the anaesthetists we have and those we need continues to widen.” She urged the government to use the forthcoming 10-year workforce plan to expand training places for anaesthetists and retain the existing workforce.
Jenny Westaway, Chair of PatientsVoices@RCoA, highlighted the human toll: “The shortage of anaesthetists is causing real pain and distress to patients. We all know the toll it takes both physically and mentally to be waiting for a much-needed operation through our own experience or those of our loved ones.”
Government Response
The Department of Health and Social Care responded that the NHS has record numbers of doctors, including over 14,800 full-time equivalent anaesthetists, an increase of 300 from the previous year. They noted that 4,500 additional training placements are being created as part of a deal with resident doctors, targeting areas where they are most needed. However, when asked how many of these placements would be for anaesthetists, a spokesperson said the details would be announced in due course.
