On 10 September 2026, NHS England reported a record waiting list of 6.21 million patients for routine hospital treatment. Health Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the extreme demand on the NHS, noting that it is no longer limited to the winter season. The summer months of June, July, and August saw nearly 7.3 million A&E attendances, marking the highest ever recorded for this period. This represents an increase of almost one million attendances compared to the same months in 2022.
Ambulance services also faced unprecedented demand, with 2.4 million callouts between June and August. At the end of July, the waiting list for pre-planned hospital care rose to 7.3 million, affecting 6.21 million patients. This figure is up from 7.27 million treatments and 6.15 million patients at the end of June. The number of patients waiting over a year for treatment increased to 111,379 by the end of July, compared to 105,711 at the end of June.
NHS faces extreme summer demand
The NHS has experienced a summer of unparalleled demand, with experts highlighting the impact of extreme weather and increased patient numbers. Professor Frank Smith from the Royal College of Surgeons of England expressed skepticism about meeting Labour’s pledge to see 92% of patients within 18 weeks by July 2029. The current rate saw 65.4% of patients begin treatment within 18 weeks in July, slightly down from June but above the 65% target set for March.
Sarah Woolnough, CEO of The King’s Fund, warned of a twin crisis where both summer and winter put significant pressure on NHS services. She emphasized the need for climate resilience and preventive measures to be core components of health policy. NHS England’s national medical director, Professor Frankie Swords, praised staff efforts despite the challenges, stating that preparations for the upcoming winter are underway earlier than usual.
What this means for newcomers
If you’re new to the UK, understanding how the NHS operates is key, especially during times of high demand. The NHS provides most healthcare services free at the point of use, funded through taxation. If you’re on a visa, you’ve likely contributed to this through the Immigration Health Surcharge, granting you access similar to that of a UK resident.
To navigate the NHS effectively, the first step is to register with a GP. Your GP is your main point of contact for most health issues and will refer you to specialists if needed. This process is vital because, unlike some countries, you cannot directly book a specialist appointment without a GP referral. For more details, you can refer to our NHS guide for newcomers.
What you should do
- Register with a GP: This is essential for accessing NHS services. You do not need ID or proof of address to register. Visit a local GP surgery and fill out their registration form to get started.
- Understand NHS services: Use your GP for ongoing care, visit a pharmacy for minor ailments, and only use A&E for emergencies. This helps manage demand effectively.
- Keep informed: Stay updated with NHS announcements and changes, especially during peak seasons. This will help you plan and manage your healthcare needs efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the NHS as soon as I arrive?
Yes, you can use the NHS if you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge with your visa. The first step is to register with a local GP.
Do I need documents to register with a GP?
No, you do not need ID, proof of address, or proof of immigration status to register with a GP. If refused, the surgery must provide a written reason within 14 days.
Is NHS treatment free?
GP appointments, hospital treatment, and A&E visits are free. Prescriptions, dental care, and some eye care carry fixed charges in England, but many exemptions apply.
Can I book a hospital specialist myself?
No, generally you cannot. Your GP must refer you to a specialist. A&E and sexual health clinics are the main exceptions where you can walk in without a referral.
Source: Independent UK: read the original
