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The King's Fund responds to NHS monthly performance figures for June 2017

Responding to the NHS monthly performance figures for June 2017, Richard Murray, Director of Policy at The King’s Fund, said: ‘The fact that there are now more than four million people waiting for treatment is a symbolic moment for the NHS.

‘While what matters most for patients is how long they wait, taken together with the fact that the NHS has missed the waiting times standard for more than a year, these statistics show once again that it is unrealistic to expect the NHS to continue to be able to offer the same standards of care within the current budget. 
 
‘But while the waiting list will be the focus of attention, we should not overlook that the figures contain some positive news on A&E waiting times. The NHS seems to have checked the rise in people waiting more than four hours at A&E, and now seems to have a realistic chance of meeting the aim of 90 per cent of people waiting less than four hours by September. The next test for A&E will come – as it always does – in the winter.’

Notes to editors

For further information, or to request an interview, please contact the Press and Public Affairs team on 020 7307 2585 (if calling out of hours, please ring 07584 146035).

The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible health and care is available to all.

Monthly performance statistics, June and July 2017 - NHS England

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