Summary
The hospital waiting list in England has increased for the third consecutive month, reaching 7.41 million people needing routine treatments. The UK government aims to reduce waiting times to 18 weeks for 92% of patients by the end of the current parliament, but only 61% are currently seen within this timeframe.
Key Facts
- NHS waiting list in England rose to 7.41 million at the end of August.
- This marks the third month in a row that the waiting list has increased.
- The target is to have 92% of patients treated within 18 weeks, but only 61% currently meet this goal.
- The government plans to meet the 18-week target by the end of this parliament.
- Summer saw a decline in progress on waiting times despite previous improvements.
- Experts warn that further investment in NHS infrastructure is needed.
- Surgeons face challenges such as lack of operating time and staff shortages.
- The government introduced new measures like surgical hubs and more scans to address delays.
