Today’s NHS England data on NHS waiting lists reveals yet another uptick in the number of patients waiting to receive treatment as pressures increase ahead of what is likely to be a difficult winter.
A total of 7.75 million are now in the queue for treatment, with the backlog increasing by 2,039 through September, and by almost 700,000 compared to the same month last year (672,062).
The data also points to stagnating performance against cancer targets, with the proportion of people waiting 2 weeks between GP referral and the first Consultant appointment at 74% for September, lingering worryingly below the NHS’ target level of 93% and hitting its lowest point since October 2022.
Brett Hill, Head of Health & Protection at leading independent consultancy Broadstone, commented: “With every passing month, the strain on the NHS is building with the growing backlog pushing the public health service to breaking point.
“It is an ominous sign of the winter pressures to come where NHS performance typically struggles amidst the cold, wet weather, and with energy costs showing little sign of letting up health chiefs should be preparing for another difficult period.
“It is evident now that employers are responding rapidly to protect their staff from the worst of the current health problems. Investing in early warning systems such as screening programmes and digital GP services can help employees catch health issues earlier, speeding up diagnoses and treatment.”
“Difficulties in accessing NHS treatment are driving higher claims on health insurance policies, yet while this places upwards pressures on premiums CEOs also recognise the tangible benefit and return on investment that these schemes offer which is reflected in the record levels of insured private health admissions we are now seeing.”
