Encouraging reduction in elective waiting list

Responding to the latest set of performance figures published by NHS England, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Daniel Elkeles, said:

"It’s really good to see a step-change in reducing the key 18-week waiting list for planned treatment.

"Trust leaders and frontline staff are keen to go further and faster, building on the achievements of the elective recovery plan, but some face hard choices as they work to deliver financial targets and savings.

"Winter pressures in urgent and emergency care are unrelenting.

"Demand is sky high across hospital, mental health, community and ambulance services. Services remain extremely stretched.

“For some patients, that means very long delays. Corridor care is always the last resort, but under current conditions may be the “least worst” option.

"Turning that round is a real priority – though we should acknowledge the progress we’ve seen this winter with ambulance response times.

"It’s been a really hard winter and from these figures it’s clear, there’s still a long way to go."