After 14 years of Conservative Party rule in the UK, access to medical care has become more challenging, with a significant increase in waiting times.
The NHS waiting list for treatment referrals in England has climbed to 7.6 million cases in April, a threefold increase since 2010.
Factors such as chronic underinvestment, the impact of COVID-19, and a decline in public services have contributed to this healthcare crisis.
The situation is mirrored in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with similar trends in rising waiting lists.
Overall dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of public services has led the public to shift towards supporting Keir Starmer’s Labour Party in the upcoming election.
The issues extend beyond healthcare, with deteriorating conditions in areas like housing, local government, and education also plaguing the UK.
The country’s population has grown older and more obese, adding strain to existing resources and contributing to rising mortality rates for conditions like diabetes and dementia.
Despite these challenges, public discontent is not unique to the UK, as global trends show a decline in trust in government across democratic countries.