Revealed: NHS trusts tell patients they can go private and jump hospital queues | NHS

NHS hospitals experiencing record-high waiting lists are selling private healthcare services. The institutions are offering services such as hip replacements, cataract procedures, hernia repairs, and MRI scans that frequently supplement the NHS’s standard waiting list, conducted by the same healthcare professionals. However, experts warn the growing cycle of commercialisation could contribute to a two-tier health system. Data shows a record 7.21 million individuals currently await NHS treatment in England, compounded by regular breaches of the non-urgent referral waiting time limit.