Reset Plan delivering real change as Northern Ireland’s longest health waits fall

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has hailed “real and meaningful change” across Northern Ireland’s health service, as new figures show major progress in cutting some of the longest waiting times for care under the Department of Health’s Reset Plan.

Since April 2025, more than 100,000 red flag or time-critical patients have been seen, diagnosed, or treated across Health and Social Care Trusts (HSC), including through partnerships with the independent sector.

The Department expects that figure to rise to around 226,000 patients, highlighting what the Minister described as “the scale and ambition of the system-wide response” to improving access for those most in need of urgent care.

Between April and September 2025, the number of people waiting over four years for an outpatient appointment has fallen by 24%, meaning 24,811 fewer patients face such delays. Over the same period, those waiting more than four years for treatment fell by 33%, equivalent to 6,683 patients.

Minister Nesbitt said:

“Today’s figures show that the Reset Plan is beginning to deliver real and meaningful change. People who have waited too long for care are now being seen, and we are starting to turn the tide on the longest waits.

“There is still a great deal of work to do, but these results demonstrate that when we focus our efforts, work collaboratively across the system, and make best use of all available capacity, we can make a real difference. This is about building a health service that delivers timely care for everyone.”

Substantial Reductions in Longest Waits

Progress has been made across key procedure areas:

• Waits of over four years for colonoscopies have dropped by an exceptional 81%, with two Trusts completely clearing their longest waits and a third due to do so later this month.

• Over 40% reductions have been achieved in patients waiting for gallbladder surgery, hip and knee replacements, and tonsillectomies.

• Children’s waiting times have improved significantly, with waits of more than a year for an endoscopic scope down 51%, and delays for cleft lip repair and PEG tube procedures down 58% and 67% respectively.

Regional endoscopy centres have also seen dramatic improvements, with waiting lists now 58% lower than their June 2022 peak — representing 23,362 fewer patients.

Building Capacity and Leadership

The Department’s progress has been driven by increased clinical activity, validation work, targeted waiting list initiatives, and a stronger partnership with the independent sector.

Up to £215 million has been allocated for elective care initiatives in the current financial year, reflecting a key Programme for Government priority.

Primary care is also contributing to the transformation, with GPs now treating 4,258 patients across five elective pathways — vasectomy, dermatology, gynaecology, minor surgery, and musculoskeletal (MSK).

Minister Nesbitt credited strong leadership and staff dedication for driving progress, particularly praising the work of Professor Mark Taylor, Clinical Director for Elective Care.

“Professor Taylor’s leadership and the dedication of staff across our health service are central to this progress. We are changing how services work, clearing the longest waits, and building the foundations for a more sustainable system. Patients are already starting to feel the benefits.

“I am very mindful that there is still so much more to do but today is about recognising the significant strides that have been made in a relatively short period of time. This momentum must continue, and it will.”

Political Support for Progress

Ulster Unionist MLA and Assembly Health Committee member Alan Chambers also welcomed the progress, describing the latest figures as “clear evidence that the Minister’s efforts are working and delivering for patients.”

Mr Chambers said:

“From the outset, the Ulster Unionist Party has been absolutely clear that tackling our unacceptable waiting times must be a key priority. For too long patients across Northern Ireland have faced delays that are simply not acceptable in a modern health service.

“The latest figures now published by the Department of Health clearly demonstrate real and measurable progress. Whilst there is still much to be done, it’s clear that the Minister’s decision to first focus on those patients who have been waiting the longest is now having a real impact on the ground.”

He highlighted improvements in key areas such as colonoscopies, hip and knee replacements, and tonsillectomies, adding:

“Mike Nesbitt’s innovative decision to appoint Dr Mark Taylor as a clinical lead for reducing waiting times is also clearly delivering big results. The overall progress is a testament to the hard work and professionalism of our health service staff, who continue to deliver excellent care under immense pressure. Their dedication is the backbone of our health system.”

As Minister Nesbitt addressed health leaders at the NICON 2025 Conference in Belfast, he reaffirmed his commitment to delivering a reformed, resilient, and patient-centred health service for Northern Ireland.

“We are operating in the context of unprecedented pressures and scarce resources,” he said. “But within that challenge lies opportunity — to think differently and continue driving improvement across our health system.”