'Ominous signs' of winter pressures as NHS waiting list grows
The NHS in England is facing record-high waiting lists for routine hospital treatments, with health leaders warning of early winter pressures. Despite record levels of elective care delivery, demand continues to outpace capacity.
Why it matters
The inability to meet treatment targets highlights systemic strain on the UK's public healthcare infrastructure.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The NHS in England experienced its busiest September on record
Health correspondent Published 8 October 2026 There are "ominous signs" that winter pressures are already affecting the NHS in England, according to senior health leaders.
The warning comes as new data reveals the waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England rose for the second month in a row.
An estimated 7.37 million treatments were waiting to be carried out at the end of August, relating to 6.24 million patients.
The numbers are the highest since October 2025 and have raised questions over whether the NHS will meet a government target of treating 92% of patients within 18 weeks by 2029.
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