Analysis of orthopaedic private healthcare patterns in England: A potential emerging two-tier system

The time-trend patterns indicate considerable geographical inequalities of access to orthopaedic private healthcare between regions within England, with a potential emergence of a two-tier healthcare system. Relying on the private sector to reduce waiting lists, without oversight, may exacerbate regional and socioeconomic differences. Policymakers should consider how the unequal distribution of funding and NHS-funded procedures could perpetuate inequalities.