Patients in Suffolk are facing an "epidemic of pain that needs to be addressed", a health watchdog has said following an analysis of hospital waiting times.
A survey of 1,400 people by Healthwatch Suffolk found the wait for care was seriously affecting how people lived their lives.
The latest questionnaire followed previous research that was carried out in 2022.
Wendy Herber, independent chair of the watchdog, said: "Our findings reveal an epidemic of pain that needs to be addressed.
"Whilst recognising the good work that we know is already happening to clear wait lists and to help people to find their way to support, this report is asking some important questions of NHS leaders. Principally, who is responsible for coordinating and providing care that enables people to stay as well as possible while they wait?"
It was found there was a higher proportion of people waiting for care and treatment at West Suffolk NHS Foundation trust in the 2024/25 sample compared to the 2022 sample.
Matt Keeling, deputy director of operations at West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Waiting for treatment can bring a range of physical, mental and emotional challenges. This report provides important and valuable insight into some of the experiences of our patients.
“The feedback shows how far we’ve come in meeting their needs but also clearly indicates improvements we can make in managing expectations and the ways we support them during their wait."
Healthwatch Suffolk's report found two-thirds of the respondents were waiting for treatment from either either trauma and orthopaedics, general surgery or gynaecology departments.
One person awaiting treatment at the James Paget Hospital said: "I’m awaiting surgery for ear and sinus issues. However, with having to call in sick to work so often due to uncontrolled symptoms (which can only be corrected with surgery) I was forced to cut my hours from 37 to 30."
Another patient awaiting gynaecology treatment at ESNEFT said they are "regularly in severe pain" and need to take "strong painkillers".
Kirsten Alderson, chief executive of Suffolk Family Carers, added the report is a "dismaying reminder that many people are waiting for procedures whilst enduring pain and whilst their health deteriorates."
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