We discuss what’s driving this inequality and what big-city trusts are doing to improve access.

Also, an update on how the NHS coped over Christmas and the new year during the longest ever junior doctor strikes and why the planning guidance for 2024 is still yet to be published. 

Send views and questions to annabelle.collins@hsj.co.uk.

You can listen to HSJ Health Check on this page, or subscribe on SpotifyApple Podcasts, Amazon Music and all the other popular podcast platforms.