Medefer

At a time when NHS waiting lists remain historically high and workforce pressures continue, the report makes a clear argument: tackling elective backlogs is not just an operational priority, it is a social mobility issue. Long waits delay diagnoses, push people out of work, increase pressure on families and disproportionately impact communities already facing significant deprivation. 

Founded in 2013 to address inefficiencies in outpatient pathways and reduce long waits for specialist care, Medefer has now seen more than 160,000 patients across 25 NHS partnerships, with over 95% of referrals reviewed by a consultant within 48 hours  . Its model bridges the gap between primary and secondary care through rapid, consultant-led triage and coordinated diagnostics, helping to ensure the right patient is seen at the right time. 

 Crucially, the impact is not only faster care but fairer access. The report highlights a 44.6% improvement in access for patients from the most deprived communities, demonstrating how digital pathways, when designed inclusively, can actively reduce health inequalities rather than entrench them.