The government is facing intense criticism following a stark new analysis of GP waiting times, which reveals a significant deterioration in patient access since the last election. The data shows millions are now enduring lengthy delays to see a family doctor, prompting accusations of a 'damning failure' in primary care.
Sharp Rise in Long Waits Across England
The analysis, published on Monday 29 December 2025, presents a troubling picture of the state of general practice. It claims that in November alone, 1.7 million people waited more than four weeks for a GP appointment. This marks an increase of 246,625 patients since the Labour government took office in July of the previous year.
Looking at the three-month period from September to November, the scale of the problem becomes even clearer. 7.6 million patients across England experienced waits exceeding four weeks, a jump of over 300,000 compared to the same timeframe a year earlier. The data indicates that every English region has seen an increase in patients waiting over a month.
Regional Breakdown and Political Reaction
Some areas have been hit particularly hard. NHS Northamptonshire recorded the largest percentage rise in long waits, at a staggering 47.31 per cent. This regional postcode lottery in access to care has fuelled political anger.
The Liberal Democrats seized on the figures, directly blaming the Labour administration. The party accused the government of a 'damning failure' regarding GP waiting times and went a step further by proposing a new legal right for patients to be seen within seven days, aiming to force ministerial action.
Government Disputes the Figures
The Department of Health and Social Care has strongly disputed the analysis. A government spokesperson argued that the figures are misrepresented and do not reflect the full picture. They pointed to significant investment in primary care, asserting that this has led to an increased number of appointments being delivered overall.
Despite this defence, the analysis will intensify pressure on ministers to demonstrate tangible improvements in access to frontline NHS services. With a top NHS chief also recently warning the public to brace for a 'tidal wave' of flu, the strain on GP practices is unlikely to ease in the coming winter months, setting the stage for further political debate over health service funding and performance.
