NHS to trial new waiting time targets

NHS England has unveiled plans for an overhaul of the A&E target alongside changes to waiting times for cancer, mental health and planned operations.

Instead of aiming to see and treat virtually all A&E patients within four hours, the sickest people, those coming in with heart attacks, acute asthma, sepsis or stroke, will be prioritised for quick treatment. The changes will be piloted this year and, if successful, could be introduced in 2020.