Surgeons respond to new Health Foundation analysis on NHS waiting times

Responding to new analysis from the Health Foundation on NHS waiting times, Mr Tim Lane, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England), said:

“This analysis serves as a warning that the government’s progress on NHS waiting times is drifting off course. At the current pace of improvement, no region is on track to restore the 18-week standard by 2029."

“Our own analysis also shows that the number of patients waiting more than a year for treatment has risen for five consecutive months, highlighting the risk that those facing the longest delays could be left behind."

“Behind these figures are people who have spent months living with pain, anxiety, and deteriorating health, often unable to work, care for their families, or get on with their lives."

“The government has made a clear promise to restore the NHS waiting time standard. To deliver on that commitment, it must back the NHS with additional investment in surgical capacity, including the workforce, operating theatres and infrastructure needed to treat more patients more quickly and cut lists for good.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. The Health Foundation: https://www.health.org.uk
2. The Royal College of Surgeons of England provides world-class education, assessment and development to 30,000 surgeons, dental professionals and members of the wider surgical and dental care teams, at all stages of their careers. Our vision is to see excellent surgical care for everyone. We do this by setting professional standards, facilitating research and championing the best outcomes for patients.
3. For more information, please contact the RCS England press office: telephone: 020 7869 6054/6053; email: pressoffice@rcseng.ac.uk; out-of-hours media enquiries: 0207 869 6056.