Independent sector breaks new record as it supports NHS to cut waiting lists

Independent healthcare providers are carrying out a record number of NHS operations, with the highest ever number of NHS patients referred to the sector in a single month, according to new official figures.

The latest NHS activity data shows that in April, independent providers were delivering a record 2,859 NHS operations per working day – including vital hip and knee replacements – an increase of over 60% compared to the same month in 2019.

The number of NHS patients referred to the sector also reached a new high of 7,162 each working day in April of this year – up from 5,852 in April 2019.

Overall, the independent sector is now consistently delivering 10% of all NHS elective (planned) care – up from around 8% pre-pandemic, with independent providers now carrying out almost 1 in 5 operations for patients on the NHS waiting list.  

David Hare, Chief Executive of the Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN), said:

“This latest data shows the independent sector’s increasingly pivotal role in delivering frontline NHS care – delivering record levels of NHS care which will be instrumental in helping the Government to meet their key “milestone” to ensure 92% of patients are treated within 18 weeks by the end of this Parliament.

“While this is a clear sign of welcome progress in tackling NHS waiting lists, the sector is committed to building on this already impressive achievement and will be working with the Government to ensure the principles contained in the recent NHS and Independent Sector Partnership Agreement are fully embedded – enabling patients to have a greater choice over their care so they can get the treatment they need, when they need it.”