England and Wales deny obese patients joint replacements

Obese patients in parts of England and Wales are being denied hip and knee replacements due to cost-cutting measures, leading to pain and contradicting national guidelines. One-third of NHS areas are refusing joint replacement surgeries to patients exceeding a specific Body Mass Index, despite guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. This rationing occurs amidst underfunding and the pandemic's impact. While some argue obesity causes joint issues, NICE recognizes joint problems can contribute to obesity. The government is allocating more resources to the NHS, but difficult choices about patient care will persist.