Over 113,000 more people received care quicker in April, thanks to the new ‘Advice and Guidance’ scheme that enables GP to lean on specialists straight after seeing patients rather than sending them to wait for a hospital appointment.

Through the scheme, GPs can consult clinicians who advise if patients need to be treated in hospital or not. It enables patients to start more appropriate treatment sooner and avoid staying on waiting lists only to be told that is not the most appropriate care.

99 per cent of general practices are now signed up, allowing thousands more patients to receive care sooner.

Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said: "Through our Plan for Change, we’re taking a common sense approach that’s tapping into existing expertise in the system, making use of wider services, and getting patients the right care faster.

"Over 100,000 people have avoided unnecessary hospital queues because GPs are bypassing waiting lists and going direct to specialists for expert advice. It means quicker care for patients closer to home, less pressure on hospitals and more time for doctors to focus on those who need them most.

"It’s a win-win to deliver care closer to home, and create a more efficient, joined-up NHS that’s improving patient outcomes."

The scheme is backed by £80 million from this government, with GP surgeries receiving £20 for each referral made under the system.

The number of patients bypassing waiting lists through this system and benefiting from earlier specialist input via Advice and Guidance increased by 14% in 2024/25 compared with the previous financial year.

Dr Matt Warren and Dr Richard Thomson, consultant gastroenterologists at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said: "We are proud and delighted the work we have been doing with our GPs is reflected in the trust performance.

"We have made the most of digital health records and modern diagnostics to get specialist opinions to GPs more quickly. This means patients are getting faster, personalised, and effective care.

"Putting patients first is our guiding principle and this new way of collaborating feels professionally rewarding. We are committed to continuing to learn and improve the services for our patients."