The findings come as routine treatment backlogs in England increase for the third consecutive month.
The survey of 2,000 UK consumers shows heightened anxiety across a range of services. The proportion of people worried about access to non-urgent NHS care has almost doubled since 2023, rising from 33% to 64%, while 63% say they are anxious about the impact of strike action on treatment. Access to GPs also remains a key pressure point, with 60% reporting concern over securing same-day or face-to-face appointments, up from 37% two years ago. More than half (52%) are now worried about difficulties contacting GP surgeries by phone, compared with 37% in 2023.
Affordability concerns are shaping patient behaviour. Nearly half of adults (43%) are worried they may be unable to pay for private healthcare, compared with 21% in 2023. Younger adults appear particularly concerned: among those aged 25–34, just over half (51%) report worries about the cost of private treatment, marking the highest level of concern of any age group.
The Exeter’s research also highlights disparities between income groups. Worries about NHS waiting times are greatest among those on the lowest pay, with 73% of people earning £15,000 or less expressing concern. Among those on salaries between £25,000 and £45,000, 72% say they are worried, while the proportion falls to 66% among those earning £55,000 or more.
Commenting on the findings, Karen Woodley, Head of Healthcare Distribution at The Exeter, said the pressure being felt across the population reflects more than just clinical need. “These results show just how strongly people are feeling the pressure on NHS services right now. It’s not just about health conditions anymore – worries about waiting times, getting in to see a GP and even the impact of the recent strike action are front of mind when people think about their health.”
“Even those turning to private healthcare to avoid NHS waiting times are increasingly worried about affordability of the options available. It’s important we keep raising awareness of private health insurance policies and continue developing innovative ways to make private healthcare more accessible and sustainable, so people can get the care they need without added financial pressure.”
