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NHS Waiting Lists Drop: 312,000 Patients Treated Faster

1/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

NHS waiting lists declined by over 312,000, according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
More patients were treated within 18 weeks.
In Wales, waiting lists fell by 23,400 while only 64.3% of accident and emergency (A&E) patients were seen within four hours.
The national waiting list stands at 7.31 million, as MPs praised NHS staff for improvements attributed to Labour's investment and reforms.

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Story summary

NHS waiting lists declined by over 312,000, according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
More patients were treated within 18 weeks.
In Wales, waiting lists fell by 23,400 while only 64.3% of accident and emergency (A&E) patients were seen within four hours.
The national waiting list stands at 7.31 million, as MPs praised NHS staff for improvements attributed to Labour's investment and reforms.