New figures reveal 18% of patients have waited over a year for treatment

June 20, 2024 - PRLog -- Disappointing new figures from the Government's Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal an alarming 18% of NHS patients waited 12 months or longer after their referral for a hospital appointment, an important test or to start receiving treatment.

Carried out between 18 October 2023 and 24 March 2024, the survey reveals that 20% of patients aged 30-64 had been waiting over a year. A leading expert says this must not be allowed to continue.

Dr Avinash Hari Narayanan (MBChB), Clinical Lead at London Medical Laboratory, says: 'Ouch! These figures make difficult reading. Swift diagnosis and treatment is often absolutely essential in ensuring successful outcomes for patients. Instead, many people are waiting a considerably long time for a hospital appointment, a key test or to start their course of treatment.

'It's even more shocking that, 18 months after their initial referral, a further 9% of adult patients were still waiting for a hospital appointment, a test or to start receiving medical treatment from the NHS.

'In all, 25% of Brits surveyed were waiting for treatment between October and March. Those aged over 65 formed the highest group, with 34% of this age group waiting for NHS services.

'Very concerningly, 11% of patients from mixed ethnic groups were still waiting 18 months or more after their referral for treatment.

'Whichever party wins, these figures highlight the challenges the next Government faces in restoring the public's confidence and faith in the NHS.

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