NHS must plan for heatwaves like it does for winter, health secretary says
UK Health Secretary Yvette Cooper has urged the NHS to implement year-round heatwave planning similar to winter preparations. This follows a surge in heat-related A&E admissions during a record-breaking summer.
Why it matters
The call reflects the growing necessity for public health systems to adapt to the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves.
Image source, Getty Images By Nick Triggle Health correspondent Published 23 minutes ago The NHS must prepare for the effects of heatwaves each year in the same way that it plans for cold weather in the winter, the health secretary has said.
Yvette Cooper said there had been a "big increase" in people attending A&Es because of the effect of hot weather this summer. Meanwhile, some hospitals have reported disruption due to key equipment failing in the heat.
In an interview with LBC Radio, Cooper called on people to look out for the elderly and other vulnerable people as well as urging better planning by the NHS.
The UK registered its 34th day of temperatures reaching 30C (86F) or higher in a calendar year on Tuesday, equalling the record set in 1995.
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