The struggle to access weight-loss jabs from NHS
Data obtained by Sky News reveals only 8 of 42 NHS Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) in England are currently able to provide the treatment, despite its intended availability from 23 June.
Doctors warn patients are being 'set up for failure', with claims that NHS England has only funded treatment for a fraction of the 97,500 patients NICE calculated should be treated in the first year.
NHS England stated it has 'fully supported the rollout', issuing guidance and providing funding to ICBs in March to cover treatment costs and support services.
Concerns also exist regarding post-treatment support, with NICE stressing the need for structured follow-up for NHS patients to prevent weight regain, a service not available to the 1.5 million private users.
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