NHS waiting list in the South East reaches its lowest since May as new tech speeds up care
AI and robotics help NHS in South East slash waiting times
Patients in the South East are experiencing quicker diagnoses and more convenient care as new data reveals that NHS waiting lists in the region are the lowest since May 2023.
At the end of December 2025, 1.79 million people were on the NHS waiting list for treatment in the South East. This reduction has been attributed to the adoption of innovative technologies and artificial intelligence, enabling trusts across the area to streamline care and improve productivity.
Various technological advancements have been implemented to reduce waiting times and improve access to care.
For example, a new AI-enabled cataract service, known as DORA, is transforming the process for surgery patients who previously faced multiple appointments and lengthy waits.
DORA uses clinically validated AI conversations to aid patients with checks, scheduling, and follow-ups, while automated post-operative assessments have freed up nearly 90,000 follow-up appointments and 22,000 nursing hours annually.
In Hampshire Hospitals, the introduction of the Da Vinci 5 robot has increased the number of gallbladder and hernia surgeries performed daily, potentially transforming some surgeries into day cases, enhancing recovery times, and optimizing hospital resources.
Innovative approaches extend beyond surgery.
In Oxfordshire, a one-stop breathlessness service brings together specialists to streamline the assessment, testing, and clinical review process, significantly reducing unnecessary appointments and freeing up clinical time for complex cases.
Patients have praised these developments for the differences they’ve made, including shorter waiting times and efficient service.
This modernization is part of a broader effort across the South East to enhance diagnostics and patient experience by collaborating across primary, community, and specialist services.
Dr Christopher Tibbs, Medical Director for NHS England South East, said: “Across the South East, teams are embracing new technology, smarter routes to care and more joined-up working to improve care for patients. These innovations are already delivering faster diagnosis, fewer delays and more personalised support which is clear through the reduction in the waiting list in the region. We are committed to continuing to go further and faster so every patient benefits from the very best the NHS can offer.”