New surgical hubs to address NHS backlogs

Today the government has announced the opening of 50 new surgical hubs, backed by £1.5 billion, delivering millions more operations to bust the backlogs in our NHS and ensure everyone gets the care they deserve.

• The pandemic put unprecedented strain and pressure on our health service and is it right that we bust the backlogs and ensure every patient can access and receive the care they deserve.

• So it is fantastic news that the government will deliver over 50 new surgical hubs that will provide at least 100 more operating theatres and 1,000 more surgical beds,  providing almost two million extra routine operations over the next three years – reducing waiting times and offering one million patients waiting for surgery access to vital procedures. This is in addition to the 91 surgical hubs already open.

• These vital beds will be ring fenced for planned operations, reducing the risk of short-notice cancellations, giving patients peace of mind and ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

• £188 million of the money will be coming here to the North West, where it is expected to provide more than 150,000 operations over the next three years and an additional 70,000 outpatient appointments.