'Netflix's new medical docuseries is not for those with a weak stomach'

A brand new medical documentary series is a truly distressing watch that will linger in my memory forever - and it's ready to stream now on Netflix.

We've all witnessed Channel 4's 24 Hours in A&E and the immense strains ourAccident and Emergency departments endure. But now, a fresh series about the NHS surpasses even that, and it's something everyone should see.

Critical: Between Life and Death premieres today (July 23) and highlights London's trauma units as they confront intense situations and strive to save those who are critically injured. From polytrauma patients to life or death surgeries, the documentary covers it all.

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Tracking front line workers across 21 days with 40 cameras, Critical doesn't shy away, and it's certainly not afraid to show you everything. It's the kind of programme that stays with you and reinforces the fact that our NHS heroes are indeed just that - heroes.

The first episode features a massive tragedy following a fairground ride malfunction in Brockwell Park, London in 2024. The ride failure resulted in several people, including children, being injured as emergency services rushed to the scene, reports the Express.

Now, in an unprecedented behind-the-scenes insight, we hear from victims, their families and the emergency services involved. With footage of the ride malfunction and the intense details, it feels like you're right there in the hospital with them.

I can honestly say I will never go on a fairground ride again. I've never been a fan of rides anyway, but knowing things can change in a single instant is terrifying. Critical: Between Life and Death has shown me a new perspective.

If you're squeamish, this programme might not be for you, but it's something everyone should try and watch. It certainly fosters a profound appreciation for those we often overlook.

The first episode plunges us directly into the thick of things, showcasing frontline workers, from initial call receivers to trauma department staff, all battling to prevent dire outcomes.

Advanced Paramedic Practitioner Rory, who assisted in orchestrating the emergency response from the operations centre, reflected: "They were having a nice day, and then very quickly that changed."

The episode also hears from the sister of one victim who was also at the fairground, who struggles to hold back the tears as she relives the harrowing experience.

The synopsis teases: "In London, a major trauma happens every 60 minutes, and for the NHS, each call is a race against time. Critical: Between Life and Death gets inside the minds of the dedicated trauma teams that hold our lives in their hands when the worst happens.

"From the makers of the award-winning 24 Hours in A&E and with exclusive access, 40 cameras are embedded for 21 days across the entire London Major Trauma System.

"The documentary series goes over the shoulder and under the scalpel to reveal not only the life-saving interventions but also the personal, emotional, and sometimes traumatic reasons that inspire those on the NHS frontline to do a job where every second counts."

Critical: Between Life and Death is currently available for streaming on Netflix.