Walk-in patients could be barred from A&E departments, according to comments from a top NHS official featured in Pulse.

The exclusive story was featured in all the national newspapers, after it was revealed last week.

Dr Helen Thomas, national medical adviser for integrated urgent care at NHS England, said NHS England ‘may well pilot’ a 'talk before you walk' scheme that requires all patients - unless they come via ambulance - to be referred or speak with a GP or other clinician before attending A&E. She suggested that the talks have involved the health secretary at some level, but added that they were at an early stage.

The Department of Health and NHS England both denied that pilots will take place.

The story has been covered in the Daily Mail, Times, MirrorGuardian, Telegraph and Independent.