Information for Patients About Delays to NHS Funded Care at Independent Hospitals
Some patients may experience delays to NHS‑funded care at independent hospitals.
NHS Greater Manchester is currently facing significant financial pressures and high demand for services. Because of this, some independent hospitals that provide routine planned care (also known as elective care) have been asked to temporarily delay new routine NHS referrals and starting new NHS treatment pathways until 31 March 2026.
This temporary measure is part of our wider approach to managing waiting lists and capacity across the system. It helps ensure that patients across Greater Manchester continue to receive care in a fair, consistent and clinically appropriate way.
What this means for you
If you are referred to an independent hospital:
- Your appointment may be delayed, or
- The hospital may not be able to book your appointment straight away
If you already had an appointment booked, you may be contacted by the hospital to say it has been delayed or postponed.
What is not affected
These temporary restrictions do not apply to:
- Cancer referrals
- Urgent or time‑critical care
- Emergency care
- Ongoing treatment that has already started
What to do if your symptoms change or worsen
If your symptoms worsen or you are concerned about your health while waiting:
- Contact your GP
- Use NHS 111 for urgent advice
- Call 999 in a medical emergency
Your care can be reviewed if your clinical needs change.
No.
It applies only to certain independent hospitals that deliver NHS‑funded care.
NHS hospitals continue to accept referrals as normal.
Yes.
Your appointment will be rebooked if and when funding becomes available or you will be contacted regarding alternative provision.
You will be contacted with an update as soon as more information is known.
You still have rights under the NHS Constitution, but availability may be limited while this temporary restriction is in place.
Your GP can discuss alternative NHS providers with you.
No, your GP won’t be able to help you get seen any quicker as your GP does not have access to the independent or NHS hospital appointment systems.
Your rights under the NHS Constitution remain in place.
You can read more on the UK Government website.
NHS Greater Manchester Patient Services:
- Email: nhsgm.patientservices@nhs.net
- Phone: 0161 271 3980 (Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm)
- Post: NHS Greater Manchester, The Tootal Buildings, 56 Oxford St, Manchester, M1 6EU
While you wait
For more information to support you whilst waiting for hospital treatment, visit our While You Wait webpage.
