October was the busiest ever month for NHS 999, with staff answering over 1 million calls.
Over 82,000 life threatening calls were responded to by Ambulance staff, an increase of more than twenty thousand on October 2019.
In addition to this, 1.4 million people were treated in A&E during the month of October, the third highest number on record.
Professor Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director said: “With the highest number of 999 calls ever answered for a single month, the busiest October on record for major A&E and the rollout of boosters as part of the successful NHS vaccination programme, there is no doubt pressure on the health service remains incredibly high.
“But despite high demand, NHS staff are going above and beyond to see more patients and deliver millions more tests, checks, treatments and operations.
“Increasing numbers are coming forward for treatment and this is expected to go up, but it remains really important people do not delay seeking help from the NHS if they feel unwell.
“Anyone needing help should come forward through NHS 111 Online so that staff can help you with the best option for your care, and it is as important as ever to get your lifesaving COVID and flu jab, to protect you this winter”.
Patients on waiting lists are being prioritised based on their needs and are now waiting an average of less than twelve weeks for elective care.
Performance data has also shown that cancer referrals were at a record high with over 230,000 undergoing urgent checks for cancer in September and a further 27,342 beginning treatment.
NHS 111 has also seen a large increase with an average of 63,000 calls coming in day in September, an increase of nearly two thousand a day since the month prior.
The NHS are putting emphasis on those who are eligible to receive their Covid boosters and Flu vaccinations to do so to help protect themselves and others this winter.
