Millions of people have had their treatment delayed and Healthwatch Lincolnshire asks if you are one of them?

It is conducting a survey to see if patients are getting the advice, information and support they need while they wait.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many people having their operations, treatment and appointments cancelled or delayed.

The NHS says it had to postpone non-urgent elective care treatment when the pandemic hit, to free up inpatient and critical care capacity.

While this helped medical staff respond to the crisis, it has resulted in a huge backlog of people waiting for treatment.

The latest data shows that the number of people waiting for routine operations and procedures in England is at its highest level since 2007 – currently at 5.45 million.

A Healthwatch spokesman explained: "The impact of delayed treatment can be huge, potentially leaving you in pain and affecting both your physical and mental health. It can even stop you working and performing day-to-day tasks, such as cleaning, shopping and caring for others.

"If you're not getting enough support to manage your health while you wait for care, then that's not acceptable."

Healthwatch Lincolnshire says it's essential that while patients wait for treatment, they get support to manage their health and wellbeing in a way that is best for them.

The spokesman continued: "If you need hospital treatment, you should be receiving advice and information from the NHS about how to look after your health while you wait. You should be kept informed about the dates of your treatment and where you are on the waiting list."

Healthwatch added: "It's vital that decision makers hear your experience of waiting for care as a result of the pandemic and the subsequent backlog. Whether it's gynaecological surgery, a knee replacement or a biopsy you're waiting for, if you've got a story to tell, we're here to listen.

"Everything you tell us is confidential and will help us understand what needs to be put in place to better support people waiting for treatment like you. So, whether your experience is good or bad – we want to hear it.

"Help us to help the NHS better support people like you by completing our short survey and telling us your experience of waiting for care."

The survey can be found by clicking on the link here.