Stagnating performance leaves people facing unacceptable delays for treatment

Commenting on the publication today of the GP Patient Survey and the NHS monthly performance statistics, Tim Gardner, Assistant Director of Policy at the Health Foundation said: 

‘Today’s data shows patients are continuing to experience unacceptable difficulties accessing GP and hospital services, resulting in avoidable pain and distress, with immense pressure being felt right across the NHS. 

‘General practice is inundated and, while patients remain largely positive about the quality of the care delivered by their local GP service, the highest proportion ever (50.2%) report difficulties getting through to their practice on the telephone. Patients are also spending longer in hospital as delays with discharge continue, resulting in long waits for ambulances and in A&E departments. 

‘The waiting list for planned hospital treatment also reached a new high of 7.47 million in May, with over 387,000 still waiting over a year to start treatment. 

‘With a five-day walk out by junior doctors beginning today, and consultants set to strike for 48 hours later this month, further disruption to patient care is inevitable – a further setback for the prime minister’s pledge to cut waiting lists. Finding a resolution to break the deadlock needs to be an immediate priority. 

‘The long-term workforce plan announced by the government last month is a major step towards tackling the chronic staff shortages facing the NHS. But making it work in practice depends on sustained investment by government in the buildings, equipment, IT and digital infrastructure needed for staff to work effectively and deliver 21st century services.’

Media contact

Emily Wilson
emily.wilson@health.org.uk
020 7257 8000