The King's Fund responds to the latest NHS performance figures

Commenting on the latest NHS performance figures published this morning, Siva Anandaciva, chief analyst at The King’s Fund, said:

‘Compared to previous years there has been less talk of a ‘winter crisis’ in the NHS. This is testament to the hard work of staff, as well as a mild winter and low levels of flu and norovirus.

‘Yet today’s figures reveal a hidden crisis that is all too real in emergency departments up and down the country. In January just 84 per cent of patients were seen by A&E units within the four-hour target, the lowest level since this data was first collected. Hospitals are full, with more than 95 per cent of beds occupied last week, well over recommended safe levels.

‘We must not become immune to the reality that behind today’s figures are stories of people with urgent medical needs waiting too long to be treated. NHS England’s review of performance targets must show how the NHS can get back to delivering the level of service that patients are entitled to expect and NHS staff want to deliver.'

Notes to editors

For further information, or to request an interview, please contact Andrew McCracken, Head of Press and Public Affairs at The King's Fund by telephone: 020 7307 2585 or 07774 907 960, or alternatively by email at A.McCracken@kingsfund.org.uk

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.