The King's Fund responds to latest NHS performance stats

Responding to the latest NHS performance statistics, Saoirse Mallorie, Senior Analyst, The King’s Fund said:

'After seeing improving performance against some key targets last month, such as the number of people waiting more than 18 months for routine treatment, these figures show stalling progress in efforts to cut waiting times.

‘Right across health and care services, too many people are still waiting far too long for the care they need. NHS staff continue to work flat out to bring down waiting times for care. Despite this, the overall waiting list stands at more than 7.4 million people and on average more than 12,000 medically fit are delayed from leaving hospital each day due to pressures in both hospital and community services. Further planned industrial action this month will cause additional disruption.

‘We seem to be stuck in a loop of national NHS workforce plans being repeatedly promised and then postponed, while patients and staff continue to pay the price of protracted uncertainty. It’s crucial that health leaders are provided with the workforce plan they need, including the details of funding to underpin it. The plan itself will be a real test of how seriously the government is taking its commitments to grow the NHS workforce and improve care.’

Notes to editors

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The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible health and care is available to all.