As reported by the National Health Executive, the NHS has delivered more elective care in 2025 than at any other point in its history, according to newly released performance data, marking a significant step in efforts to reduce long waiting times
In December, 1.43 million treatments were carried out – 91,775 more than in the same month the previous year. The rise came despite five days of strike action by resident doctors, during which hospitals maintained close to 95% of normal service levels.
Waiting list figures show incremental improvement. The share of patients waiting longer than 18 weeks for treatment has fallen slightly to 61.5%. Those waiting more than a year now make up 1.9% of cases – the lowest proportion recorded since June 2020.
NHS leaders say the gains reflect reforms aimed at increasing capacity and streamlining patient pathways. These include the rollout of community diagnostic centres and surgical hubs, expanded evening and weekend clinics, and wider adoption of “straight to test” models designed to reduce repeat appointments.
However, the data also underscores mounting pressure on urgent care services. January recorded 2,320,266 attendances at A&E departments – the highest monthly figure on record and 4.6% higher than January 2025. Winter four-hour A&E performance stands at 73.5%, compared with 72.1% last year.
While elective services show sustained recovery, emergency care is facing what could become the busiest winter period the NHS has experienced.
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