Much more to do to tackle disparities in waiting times

Responding to new analysis by the Nuffield Trust and Health Foundation on differences between how long different groups of patients are waiting for NHS care in England, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said:

"These findings are really concerning.

"Trust leaders are committed to delivering high quality care for all the patients and communities they serve.

"But it’s clear much more needs to be done to tackle the growing number of patients experiencing unequal access to planned and emergency care, and poorer outcomes.

"Trust leaders are doing everything they can to bring down waiting times, including ensuring support and resources are directed towards those most affected by structural inequalities.

"Addressing health inequalities must be front and centre of the upcoming 10-year plan."