Summary
Hospitals in England are struggling to keep up with patient demand due to increased NHS waiting lists. The number of planned procedures waiting to be completed rose in July, and many appointments were canceled due to a doctors' strike. The NHS is trying to address these challenges while also improving cancer care and managing high emergency service demand.
Key Facts
- NHS waiting lists for routine treatment in England rose to 7.4 million in July.
- A doctors' strike in July caused 50,000 appointment cancellations.
- 1,429 patients waited more than 18 months for treatment in July, up from June.
- The government aims to treat 65% of patients within 18 weeks by March 2026.
- Only 61.3% of treatments met the 18-week standard in July.
- NHS Providers report high pressure on emergency services and staff.
- Cancer care showed progress, with 69.2% of urgent referrals treated within 62 days in July.
- Ambulance response times improved, despite ongoing pressure.
