The NHS has just released its much-anticipated 37-page report on Elective Care Reform, outlining its strategy to address the growing challenges in planned, non-emergency treatments such as tests, scans, and cancer therapies. These services, critical to patient outcomes, have struggled with mounting delays and inefficiencies, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. The report signals the Labour government’s renewed commitment to modernising and streamlining elective care delivery, creating a timely opportunity for transformative innovation within the healthcare system.
At Appt Health, we’ve dived into the report, so you don’t have to. Here, we’ll unpack the key highlights, explore what they mean for the future of healthcare, and share how our work aligns with and supports this vital reform effort—saving you both time and effort.
1. Fresh focus on long-term conditions
The report outlines its aims to improve pathways for long-term conditions like respiratory, gastroenterology, and cardiology through integrated, community-based care. For example, the NHS plans to scale up the breathlessness pathway and pilot digitally enabled models for managing long-term respiratory conditions.
2. Empowering patients with digital innovation
Tools like the NHS App, remote monitoring, and Patient-Initiated Follow-Ups (PIFU) are front and centre. By 2026, 70% of elective care appointments will be viewable and manageable via the NHS App. Remote monitoring alone could save 500,000 primary care appointments.
3. Driving resource efficiency
Innovations like group appointments, one-stop clinics, and digital triage are set to revolutionise care delivery. By the end of 2025, group appointments will be widely adopted, streamlining care while improving outcomes.
4. Addressing Health Inequalities
Reducing disparities is a key priority. Plans include reviewing patient transport services and integrating health inequalities data into NHS performance reporting by 2025—a huge step toward equity in care.
5. Unlocking AI’s potential
AI will play a central role in streamlining care. From predicting non-attendance to dynamically filling appointment slots, AI could save 1 million missed appointments annually—a vision that strongly resonates with Appt Health’s mission.
6. Shifting care closer to communities
The NHS aims to move care for specialties like ENT, gastroenterology, and cardiology from hospitals to community settings. This promises faster access and more personalized care for patients.
7. Optimising referrals and advice
Streamlined referrals and expanded Advice & Guidance (A&G) services ensure patients access the right care at the right time. GPs will now receive £20 per advice request, incentivising smarter care pathways.
8. Supporting NHS staff
The NHS plans to train 8,000 leaders in effective elective care management by 2026, reducing administrative burdens and maximising clinical time—a win for patients and providers alike.
How Appt Health can help
At Appt Health, we’re perfectly positioned to support these reforms. Our platform leverages AI and behavioural science to optimise patient engagement, streamline workflows, and address health inequalities. From managing multi-morbidity to reducing administrative overheads, we’re helping primary care networks deliver more effective, patient-centred care.
Change on this scale isn’t just necessary—it’s possible. Together, we can turn these reforms into meaningful outcomes for patients, reduce pressure on NHS services, and build a healthcare system that truly delivers for all. Let’s make it happen.