NHS access delays drive employer health cover demand

Persistent delays in accessing NHS treatment are reinforcing the role of employer-funded health protection.

The latest Office for National Statistics figures on experiences of NHS healthcare services in England show that almost a fifth (16%) of patients on a hospital waiting list had been waiting for more than 12 months.

Nearly half (46%) rated their overall experience of waiting for hospital treatment as poor, while 30% said the administration of their care was poor.

Pressure is also evident in primary care. Around a quarter (24%) of people attempting to contact their GP surgery were unable to do so on the same day.

LACK OF APPOINTMENTS

Of those who requested an appointment but declined one that was offered, more than a third (36%) said it was because no appointment was available within two weeks.

Long NHS waits are increasingly cited by employers as a driver for investing in private healthcare benefits, particularly where delayed treatment risks prolonged absence or escalation of health conditions.

CONTINUING CRISIS

Brett Hill, head of health and protection at Broadstone, said: “A new year and a fresh start are badly needed for the government, as today’s data shows the NHS access crisis continues unabated.

“With waiting lists still hovering close to January 2025 levels, it is no surprise that thousands of patients continue to report poor access to care. The threat of further strike action only adds to the risk that pressures on the system could intensify before any improvement is felt.”

PROTECTING PEOPLE AND PRODUCTIVITY

And he added: “The consequences are increasingly visible in the labour market. Latest figures show 2.81 million people were economically inactive due to long-term sickness between August and October 2025 – almost one million more than in 2019 – underlining the growing link between healthcare access and workforce participation.

“In response, employers are stepping in to protect both their people and productivity. Greater use of private medical insurance and health cash plans is helping employees access treatment earlier, preventing conditions from escalating and supporting quicker returns to work.”