The hospital waiting list in England has grown for the third consecutive month, reaching 7.41 million patients by the end of August — up from 7.36 million in May. Health experts warn the government’s key National Health Service (NHS) priority, tackling the treatment backlog, is now in jeopardy.
The number of patients waiting beyond the target of 18 weeks for routine procedures such as hip and knee replacements continues to rise. Only 61% of patients are being seen within the 18-week window, far short of the government’s target of 92%.
Government Struggles to Meet NHS Pledge
The government has promised to restore the 18-week treatment target by the end of the current parliamentary term — a goal not achieved in over a decade. However, health analysts say that current progress is too slow to meet this commitment.
Dr. Francesca Cavallaro from the Health Foundation think-tank said, “The scale of the challenge remains significant,” adding that the government’s current trajectory suggests it will fall short of its pledge.
Over the summer, the backlog worsened despite earlier improvements under the Labour government, highlighting the strain on hospital capacity and staffing.
Experts Call for Urgent NHS Investment
Professor Peter Friend of the Royal College of Surgeons of England warned that the upcoming winter would likely be “tough” for healthcare services unless urgent investment is made.
“The government must face facts: without new funding for NHS infrastructure and staff wellbeing, progress on reducing waiting times will remain slow,” he said. “Surgeons are ready to do more, but they’re held back by a lack of operating time, staff shortages, and outdated equipment.”
Rory Deighton of the NHS Confederation echoed these concerns, calling the situation “deeply frustrating” and noting that leaders are working tirelessly to improve productivity despite worsening backlogs.
Health Minister Defends NHS Efforts
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock defended the government’s performance, describing it as a “record-breaking summer” for the NHS, with more tests and checks carried out than ever before.
He emphasized the government’s plans to expand surgical hubs, increase evening and weekend scans, and deploy cutting-edge medical technology. “We know there’s more to do,” Kinnock said, “but we’re pressing ahead to ensure millions more patients receive timely care.”
