New report shows discrepancies in NHS waiting time data

The accuracy of NHS data on waiting times has been called into question by the National Audit Office (NAO).

A report compiled by the organisation has suggested that problems with the completeness, consistency and accuracy of patient waiting time data and the way referrals are managed are undermining efforts to achieve value for money.

For example, local variations have been observed in how and when each patient's waiting time clock is started, paused or stopped, while in other cases the accuracy of the figures is being undermined by basic human errors.

As such, the report questions whether the NHS will be able to hit its target of ensuring all patients be treated within 18 weeks of referral.

Amyas Morse, head of the National Audit Office, said the issue is "masking a good deal of variation between trusts in actual waiting times".

He added that the solution "is not costly new processes, rather making sure existing processes work properly and are properly scrutinised".

Responding to the new findings, Royal College of Nursing chief executive Dr Peter Carter said this needs to be put right in order to generate meaningful data that can be used to improve NHS services.