I have seen a number of threads (here and on Facebook) bemoaning and worrying about the state of the NHS and social care in the UK. But what about how the general public treats it? Over the years, so many people used these services incorrectly, or even abused it in wanton fashion.
For example, I work at a council run rehabilitation unit. The majority of patients stay here after being discharged from hospital. They usually stay for around 3 weeks before they're well enough to go home (or sadly sometimes residential or nursing care). However there is a noticeable minority of patients who seem to treat the place like a hotel. Eg,, staying in bed all morning, watching TV all day in their rooms, Refusing to join in group exercise classes, chatting on their mobiles. Socialising with their visitors for hours on end. I mean, they have plenty of free time in the afternoon and evening to chill out.
Indeed, some of the conversations I've heard make them seem entitled. For example , "I should like some tea and cakes brought to my room for when my guests arrive". Another lady kept ringing her bell as a carer made her tea in a mug, she wanted it put in a China cup. Another male patient turned away a physiotherapist who came in to see him. His reason for turning her away was "I haven't finished reading my morning paper". The best one was this woman complaining that she expects room service and that she's worked and paid her taxes. They're meant to be there for rehabilitation, not the Downton Abbey experience!
Also there are other patients who are ready to go home but are very reluctant to leave. Most likely as they get 3 free meals and company and attention. Which is understandable if they're lonely at home. But that's not what the service is for. I believe this contributes to the problem of bed blocking in hospital as patients can't leave hospital due to a lack of space at rehab.