Towards a better understanding of NHS secondary and social care backlogs: qualitative perspectives on waiting lists, deferrals and delays by disabled people from minoritised ethnic groups

Different types of backlog require different government considerations. Work is needed to restore patient confidence and encourage help-seeking, as well as improving access to general practice, to encourage those people to use healthcare who ceased doing so during the pandemic. Referral processes may need substantial reform to remove GP bottlenecks. There should be more transparency about wait times and the way certain conditions are prioritised for patients on long waiting lists or with cancelled appointments. Neglected specialties such as gynaecology and those currently overloaded such as mental healthcare should receive particular support, and alternative services should be considered.