NHS progress on waiting times welcome but more to do to hit targets

Responding to the government's announcement that NHS waiting lists have fallen three times faster in areas of highest joblessness, Rory Deighton, acute and community care director at the NHS Confederation, said:

“NHS leaders and their teams have been working incredibly hard to tackle the care backlog and reduce waits, so it is very welcome to see the progress made so far. That progress matters to patients, particularly those who have waited the longest for treatment.

“But health leaders will not rest on their laurels as they know the system remains a long way from where it needs to be, and the ambition to get least 65% of patients across the country treated within 18 weeks by the end of March remains highly challenging. Hitting this target consistently and going further will require sustained focus, realistic planning and continued support, especially in the context of workforce pressures, constrained finances and the potential for yet more industrial action.

“There will be real opportunities to make significant inroads into these lists through changes to the care model, including outpatient reform, neighbourhood working and advice and guidance. We look forward to continuing to work with the government, NHS England and our members to spread good practice and carry this momentum forward to support further improvement.”