Political tensions rise as waiting list issues strain health services in both Wales and England.

A political dispute has emerged over hospital waiting lists in Wales and England, with both sides pointing fingers. Welsh Health Minister Eluned Morgan criticised England’s Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, for what she described as a “naked political hit.” Mr Barclay responded, expressing a willingness to help treat Welsh patients facing extended waits by offering services over the border.

While Ms Morgan acknowledged that NHS Wales faces significant challenges with waiting lists, she also noted that England’s health system has its own issues.

But how do the two systems really compare?

When waiting times for hospital treatment are first published, a direct comparison between England and Wales isn’t possible. This is due to differences in reporting: Wales includes therapies and diagnostic wait times in its figures, while England does not.

To make a fair comparison, analysts have isolated only consultant-led specialisms in both nations, providing a clearer picture. Even so, the statistics remain unfavourable for Wales, highlighting the ongoing struggle to manage waiting times effectively.