Government plans to reduce hospital waiting lists in England, and tackle the NHS backlog

January 15, 2025

community diagnostic centres aim to treat patients more quickly, closer to home

UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer has announced government plans to reduce hospital waiting lists in England, and tackle the NHS backlog. The waiting list currently stands at 7.5 million, with more than 3 million having already waited longer than the 18-week target.

As part of the plan, community diagnostic centres aim to treat patients more quickly, closer to home. Sir Keir Starmer also promised patients more choice over where they receive treatment, and a greater use of the private sector to help reduce hospital waiting lists in England. 

Currently, only 59% of patients meet the 18-week target, with three million people waiting longer. The new promise is to reach 65% by March 2026, which, according to the government, would reduce the backlog by more than 450,000. Doctors’ leaders welcomed the plan but expressed concern over whether there were enough staff to achieve the goals being set.