NHS England setting up ‘war rooms’ to prepare for ‘toughest winter on record’ – By Jess Sharp (Sky News) / Oct 18, 2022
This year, the NHS is expecting to face more than a “twindemic” during the winter months, with modelling suggesting respiratory infections could occupy up to half of all hospital beds in the country.
The NHS is setting up data-driven “war rooms” as it prepares for what could be England’s “toughest winter on record”, new plans have revealed.
Under the government’s winter preparation plan, which aims to help the NHS cope during the colder months, the 24/7 “care traffic control centres” are expected to be created in every local area.
The hubs, led by teams of clinicians and experts, will manage demand and capacity across England by constantly tracking the number of beds available and people attending hospital.
It is hoped the centres will make it easier and quicker for decisions, such as if hospitals need extra assistance or if ambulances need to be diverted, to be made.
