Poll: How long is an acceptable wait for a routine NHS appointment?

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"The government is set to fall short of its pledge to cut NHS waiting lists, with experts warning millions of patients will still face lengthy delays for treatment by the end of this parliament. Labour promised that 65 per cent of patients would be treated within 18 weeks a standard that hasn't been met for over a decade. But new analysis suggests the target will likely be missed, despite some progress in reducing the overall backlog."

The Independent highlights reporting across reproductive rights, climate change and Big Tech, funded by donations to keep journalists on the ground and avoid paywalls. Donations support investigative work and documentary production and aim to make quality journalism available to everyone funded by those who can afford it. The government is projected to miss its pledge to reduce NHS waiting lists, meaning millions could still face long delays by the end of the parliament. Labour pledged 65% of patients treated within 18 weeks, a target unmet for over a decade. New analysis indicates the target will likely be missed despite some backlog reduction, prompting debate about acceptable wait times.

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