The head of NHS England has commended Oxford University Hospitals for its efforts to reduce patient waiting periods and strengthen urgent care services.

Sir Jim Mackey travelled to the trust on Monday, August 17, where he engaged with board members and clinical personnel and inspected the newly established Surgical Elective Centre.

According to Sir Jim, discussions with Oxford University Hospitals staff proved informative, focusing on advancements in both emergency and scheduled treatment while also addressing backlogs.

Sir Jim also examined development of the Urgent and Emergency Care initiative and toured the maternity facilities at John Radcliffe Hospital.

Professor Meghana Pandit, chief executive of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, expressed satisfaction at presenting the trust’s initiatives to improve waiting list performance and elevate standards of care.

The trust aims to maximise opportunities for treating higher volumes of patients within shorter timeframes and minimising delays between referral and treatment.

Professor Pandit thanked colleagues whose dedication underpins these ongoing improvements.

The visit provided an opportunity to demonstrate the trust’s strategic vision.

The maternity unit has achieved substantial milestones in introducing revised clinical pathways and enhancing the experience for expectant mothers and their families.

The trust remains dedicated to fulfilling the maternity commitments outlined in its ten-point strategy.