Private sector’s contribution to reducing NHS waiting lists in England set to increase by 20%
The UK government has revealed plans to significantly boost the private sector’s role in tackling the NHS backlog, with private hospitals expected to deliver up to one million additional appointments, scans, and operations annually. This initiative forms part of a wider strategy to reduce the waiting list for planned care, which currently stands at 6.4 million people awaiting 7.5 million treatments.
In a key speech outlining his elective reform plan, Keir Starmer announced an extra £2.5bn per year in funding for private providers. This will bring the total funding to nearly £16bn annually, with the goal of ensuring that no patient waits more than 18 weeks for non-urgent hospital care by spring 2029.
Independent Sector’s Contribution
The independent sector already plays a significant role in supporting the NHS, delivering around 5 million outpatient appointments, diagnostic tests, and operations each year. These services account for approximately 10% of the NHS’s elective activity. The proposed increase of 1 million appointments would equate to a 20% rise in the private sector’s contribution.
Private hospitals currently conduct nearly one in five NHS-funded operations, including around 25% of all hip and knee replacements and a similar proportion of cataract surgeries. The expanded partnership seeks to address long delays in critical areas such as gynaecology and orthopaedics.
Ensuring Compliance and Quality
As private providers take on a larger role, maintaining high standards of care and regulatory compliance will be essential. HLTH Group, with its expertise in CQC compliance and governance, supports independent healthcare providers in meeting these challenges. By assisting with CQC setup, HR processes, and policy development, HLTH Group ensures that private sector services meet NHS standards and deliver safe, high-quality care.
The growing collaboration between the NHS and private providers signals a significant shift in UK healthcare, aiming to provide timely care to millions while upholding the quality and safety patients expect.