STORY
The NHS waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England has risen for a second consecutive month, according to the latest performance figures. The list reached about 7.28 million treatments involving approximately 6.16 million patients.
The total was reported as the highest level since December 2025, reversing some of the earlier progress in reducing the backlog. Ministers have made cutting waiting times one of the Government’s principal health priorities.
The figures will increase pressure on the Government to demonstrate that additional investment and reforms are improving access to care. NHS leaders continue to face workforce pressures, high demand and difficulties moving patients safely through hospitals.