IHPN responds to small drop in NHS waiting lists

Responding to the NHS’ latest performance stats David Hare, Chief Executive of the Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN), said:

“While a small drop in NHS waiting lists is of course positive, today’s figures make clear that significantly more progress needs to be made if the NHS is to reduce waiting lists by 1 million each year – something which NHS England itself has said is required if it is to meet the 18-week target once again by the end of this Parliament.

“Achieving this will be no mean feat but can absolutely be done if the NHS makes full use of all available capacity in the health system, including in the independent health sector.

“As the Secretary of State made clear last month, independent providers are a vital part of the NHS’ recovery, with the sector already removing over one million patients from NHS waiting lists this year and delivering record amounts of care for NHS patients – all free at the point of use.

“Given the scale of the challenge ahead in reducing waiting lists, it’s vital that this momentum continues and that local NHS areas do not take their foot off the gas – ensuring they make full use of all capacity in the sector so patients can get the care they need.”