NHS Waiting List Drops but Long Waits Persist

The NHS waiting list for planned hospital treatments in England fell to 7.39 million at the end of April 2025, its lowest level in two years and down from a peak of nearly 7.8 million in September 2023. Health Secretary Wes Streeting and officials credit the improvement to increased investment, extra appointments, and NHS staff efforts, while acknowledging ongoing challenges. The number of patients waiting more than a year for treatment has risen to 190,068, and long waits for treatment over 18 months have also increased. Average waiting times for planned treatment have dropped to 13.3 weeks, the lowest since July 2022. However, targets for cancer care and A&E services continue to be missed. The government has pledged further NHS reforms and a 3% annual budget increase, but experts stress that sustained resources are needed for full recovery.