Millions of patients trapped on an 'invisible waiting list'

Three million patients in England have not had an appointment after being referred by their GP for specialist care, a new analysis has suggested.

- REBECCA THOMAS HEALTH CORRESPONDENT

NHS England figures last month estimated that 7.36 million treatments were waiting to be carried out at the end of May, relating to just under 6.23 million patients.

The new analysis from MBI Health suggests that almost half of these patients have been left in limbo. Delays in making a first assessment can lead to late diagnosis, worsening symptoms, and pressure on emergency services.

The Patients Association, which represents patients across the country, said that if the figures are accurate then the situation is “staggering” and means that millions of patients are on an “invisible waiting list”.

The analysis comes after data showed that the NHS is making progress in reducing the overall waiting list, after Sir Keir Starmer pledged that 92 per cent of patients would be treated within 18 weeks by March 2029 - a target that has not been met since 2015.