Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has admitted problems facing the NHS in England are "completely unacceptable".
It comes after a series of reports a studies released this year that highlighted serious issues with overcrowded hospitals and NHS trusts facing increasing pressure.
He said there was "no excuse" for some of the difficulties highlighted and the government has a plan to help hospitals cope.
He told the BBC: "It is incredibly frustrating for me. I am doing this job because I want NHS care to be the safest and best in the world. That kind of care is completely unacceptable. No-one would want it for members of their own family.
"We are trying very hard to sort out these problems."
NHS England is currently consulting on cutting acute services at on of its hospitals in south west London.
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