NHS waiting list in England hits a record high

News - 13 November 2023

For the first time, the NHS has published the number of individual patients on the waiting list – 6.5 million – in addition to the total number of appointments and treatments currently on the waiting list – 7.77 million.
A medical professional wearing scrubs and a disposable face mask. In the background, a patient is lying down under a scanner with two more medical professionals watching over them.

Following the publication of this data, Louise Ansari, Chief Executive of Healthwatch England, said:

"It’s very concerning that the waiting list for routine care continues to grow to record levels ahead of an expected busy winter period. This will only add to the challenges facing patients and staff, already stretched to the limit.

"It is vital that the NHS provides support to patients who are waiting longer than expected, in particular people facing health inequalities who are most likely to be affected by long waits, including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, women, disabled people, and those on low incomes. Dedicated support should include funding to cover the travel costs of any patient taking up the offer of quicker treatment away from their local hospital. Without this, access to faster appointments will only be possible for the more well-off in society, leaving others to continue long waits for care.

"Today’s figures also show the scale of the challenge facing A&E and ambulance teams as we head into winter. With more people needing emergency support, it’s vital that patients have confidence that services are there for them when they need urgent care. However, the numbers only paint part of the picture. We also need NHS England and local services to work with people to understand and improve experiences and confidence this winter."

If you or someone you know is waiting for NHS treatment, please click the pink 'Talk to us' button below and share your experience by completing our online feedback form.

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