Covid inquiry told top NHS doctor was terrified

The Covid inquiry has been informed that a top NHS doctor was deeply concerned about the prospect of having to prioritize patients due to the pandemic's strain on the healthcare system. Sir Stephen Powis, the national medical director of NHS England, stated that a points-based triage tool was developed in case the need to prioritize patients arose. Powis emphasized that the tool was never used and that the NHS was able to provide care to all patients who required it, despite the immense pressure on the healthcare system. However, he acknowledged that the prospect of having to make such difficult decisions was a source of significant distress for the medical community. The inquiry is examining the government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the measures taken to protect the NHS and ensure that all patients received the necessary care. The testimony from Sir Stephen Powis provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by healthcare professionals during this unprecedented crisis.