Our goal is to use weather and climate data to help predict fluctuations in workload within the NHS - and thereby support the more effective targeting and delivery of healthcare services.

For example, much of the excess winter mortality is caused by falls in temperature. There are also significant rises in workload during increased levels of influenza and bronchitis - both of which are related in some way to temperature, and possibly to air quality.

It is widely accepted that the weather affects NHS workload - we are now aiming to find out the size of these effects and to help in predicting 'flashpoints'.

During the winter of 2000/01, the Met Office ran a trial at five locations across the country, downloading health data to provide a snapshot of current workload and as a basis for the development of a workload forecast. Last winter "Forecasting the nation's health" moved into its second phase with a test of the automated data collection and distribution process. Some 28 hospitals, 22 NHS Direct centres and 32 GP out-of-hours providers participated in this pilot service. This winter the operational service will be put to the test again with more participants then ever before.

If you are interested in becoming involved in the project, please read through the FAQs (see the link below) and then contact health@metoffice.com

e-mail us: health@metoffice.com

Frequently asked questions 

More about the winter 2002/03 pilot 

Evaluation of the winter 2001/02 pilot

Evaluation of the winter 2000/01 trial