NHS Treatment Times Hit Target Just Barely

The UK government has met an interim target for speeding up hospital treatments in England. As of March 2026, 65.3% of patients received treatment within the 18-week timeframe, narrowly achieving the 65% goal.

This milestone is considered the first step towards the ambitious 92% target set for 2029. Health Secretary Wes Streeting celebrated the success, noting that performance has improved significantly since Labour took office when it was below 59%.

Streeting attributed the progress to government investment, modernization efforts, and the dedication of NHS staff nationwide. He stated that this achievement puts the NHS on track for the fastest reduction in waiting times in its history.

Further positive news emerged as the overall waiting list decreased to 7.1 million patients in the past month, reaching its lowest point in three and a half years. NHS England's chief executive, Sir Jim Mackey, described this as a "huge moment."

Mackey acknowledged that this progress is even more remarkable given the challenges faced, including repeated strike actions by resident doctors. He emphasized that these improvements demonstrate tangible progress for patients and communities.

Despite these successes, experts caution that a significant journey remains to reach the 92% target, a level not seen in over a decade. Tim Mitchell from the Royal College of Surgeons of England highlighted that staff efforts are hindered by persistent under-investment in essential infrastructure.

Mitchell stressed that outdated buildings and insufficient operating theatres and beds pose significant constraints. Without substantial investment to address these limitations, the progress made for patients facing long waits may remain precarious.