Diagnostic waiting times for January 2023

Responding to January 2023's Diagnostic Waiting Times data for England, Dr Katharine Halliday, President of The Royal College of Radiologists, said:

“Today's figures reflect the extreme pressure we are facing in diagnostics and cancer services. The combination of winter pressures, chronic shortfalls and industrial action has unfortunately led to many patients waiting too long for tests and treatment. 

"January was particularly tough, but the root cause of this pressure isn't new. With a 29% shortfall in clinical radiologists and 17% in clinical oncologists, it's no surprise we're missing targets.

"Next week's Spring Budget is an opportunity for the Chancellor to demonstrate his commitment to the NHS, by funding an ambitious workforce plan that will recruit and retain enough staff, allowing us to give patients the care they deserve."