The NHS waiting list rose to 7.22 million in April, reversing recent progress and highlighting the ongoing pressure on healthcare services. Industry figures say the increase reinforces the importance of private medical insurance and virtual healthcare services in helping clients access treatment and support more quickly.
Karen Woodley, Head of Healthcare Distribution at The Exeter, comments:
“After a period of falling waiting times, a rise in the latest figures shows the scale of the challenge the NHS faces. Our own data found that 49% of people expect waiting times to increase, and for the 7.22 million patients still waiting for care, the picture is made more complicated by another junior doctors’ strike due to begin next week. There are reasons for optimism given the ground gained earlier this year, but for many patients, the reality is still a long and uncertain wait.
he fact that demand for private healthcare continues to grow even as waiting times fall speaks to how people now view it, not as an alternative to the NHS but as a permanent part of how they manage their health. With the sector on course to approach one million PMI-funded treatments annually, it is clear that for many, having that cover in place is about reducing the pressure of an open-ended wait and supporting a faster road to recovery, whatever the figures are doing.”
Dr David Griffiths, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at Teladoc Health UK, comments:
“The overall waiting list is growing, and for patients, that means more time without the support they need. According to the King’s Fund, 66% of people on an NHS waiting list don’t know when to expect their appointment or treatment, which is particularly difficult – for both patient and doctor – when symptoms are often worsening.
If patients can’t access the care they need, and their symptoms are worsening, employers are also affected. The good news is that they do have options: giving staff access to virtual clinical care helps them manage their condition earlier, stay in work, and avoid reaching a point where recovery takes far longer than it would have done.”
