elective care backlogs
Councils are discussing how to manage elective care backlogs and patient flow challenges at local NHS trusts.
On 21 October 2026, Barking and Dagenham's Health Scrutiny Committee discussed elective care backlogs, which are delays in scheduled non-emergency medical procedures, alongside patient flow and overcrowding at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT). The committee also reviewed the work of community GP hubs in supporting the Trust.
In October 2026, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust secured £42 million for a rebuild of the Accident and Emergency department at Queen's Hospital. This department, designed for 300 patients a day, frequently sees over double that number. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months to provide more space, addressing issues that contribute to overall patient care challenges.
Key facts
- Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust secured £42 million for a rebuild of the Accident and Emergency department at Queen's Hospital in October 2026. Source
- The Queen's Hospital A&E department was designed for 300 patients a day but frequently sees over double that number. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 22 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.