Report: Waiting Times Survey

In November 2019, we undertook an online survey of surgeons to understand why operations were being delayed or cancelled, and the impact on patients. This report reflects the views of 421 surgeons who worked in NHS hospitals across England in November 2019. Among the findings:

• Nearly six in ten surgeons had to cancel operations at the last minute
• Nearly four in ten surgeons had to undertake more complex surgery due to a patient being on a waiting list for an extended period

The responses were unanimous in pointing out there is an urgent need to invest in beds and hospital staff, and to work collaboratively with policy-makers. We have already begun to use them to inform our conversations with government, NHS England and other stakeholders, as we build support for a 5 year plan to tackle lengthening waits for operations.

• Read the report in full