Responding to the latest NHS performance statistics, Nuffield Trust Deputy Director of Research Sarah Scobie said:
“The government has grand ambitions for the NHS over the next decade, but today’s data underlines just how difficult it will be to meet waiting list pledges alongside deeper reforms. The overall waiting list still stands at 7.36 million and, while there has been really welcome progress in reducing the proportion of people waiting 18 weeks or more for treatment, there is an incredibly long way to go to meet the target.
“Another round of resident doctor strikes this summer will inevitably have an impact on patients waiting for treatment, and it will be harder for the government to make headway on its 10 Year Plan for health while this dispute is rumbling on.
“It’s also important to understand the long-term and systemic nature of long waits in the NHS. The waiting list for planned care was growing for almost a decade before its peak in 2023, so while it is good news that it has come down from its peak, until the NHS is able to meet the growing demand for health care, we will continue to see delays and frustration.”
Notes to editors
- The Nuffield Trust is an independent health think tank. We aim to improve the quality of health care in the UK by providing evidence-based research and policy analysis and informing and generating debate www.nuffieldtrust.org.uk.
- For all queries or to arrange an interview, contact our press office: press.office@nuffieldtrust.org.uk; or 020 7462 0500.