The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, has announced that the NHS waiting list is decreasing, signaling a positive trend towards recovery. In September, there were 7.39 million appointments backlog in England for 6.24 million patients, showing a reduction in appointments compared to the previous month and a significant decrease from July 2024. The waiting list for planned medical treatments saw a rise in June, July, and August.
Streeting highlighted that for the first time in 15 years, waiting lists have decreased, indicating progress in the NHS’s recovery journey. Despite this improvement, the NHS is facing its busiest period heading into winter, with expectations of increased flu cases and upcoming doctor strikes.
Recent data reveals record A&E attendances and ambulance incidents in October, along with the delivery of 14.4 million flu vaccines this autumn. As resident doctors prepare for strike action, NHS national medical director, Professor Meghana Pandit, emphasized the challenges faced by NHS staff during the winter season.
While the waiting list decreased in September, the NHS continues to grapple with over 180,000 people waiting over a year for routine hospital treatment. Tim Gardner from the Health Foundation expressed concerns about the NHS’s ability to cope with the upcoming winter pressure and stressed the importance of resolving the doctors’ strike promptly.
Furthermore, cancer treatment targets have not been met, with a decline in the percentage of patients diagnosed or ruled out for cancer within 28 days of referral. The government has set targets to improve these figures by March 2026. Additionally, the number of patients experiencing long A&E wait times has increased, highlighting the strain on emergency care services.
Streeting praised the government’s investments in the NHS, resulting in reduced waiting times and improved patient care. He emphasized the importance of cutting wastage to redirect funds towards frontline services. The government’s commitment to protecting NHS investment in the upcoming Budget was also emphasized to address the healthcare system’s needs after years of decline.