How Important Are Targets?
The recent decision by NHS England to remove targets aimed at reducing community waiting times and establishing women’s health hubs in the 2025-26 planning guidance has raised significant concerns among healthcare professionals and patients alike. These hubs were envisioned as comprehensive centres offering multidisciplinary care for various women’s health issues, including reproductive health, menopause, and pelvic floor disorders.
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) has been vocal about the potential negative impact of this decision. Kate Lough, chair of the Pelvic Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP) network, expressed her disappointment, stating, “This decision is a further example of inconsistent and short-term funding for projects deemed as priorities in women’s health.” The CSP emphasizes that removing these targets could exacerbate existing disparities, leading to uneven access to essential women’s health services across the country. They advocate for the reinstatement of these targets and call for consistent, long-term funding to ensure that women’s health services are prioritized and adequately supported.
How Many Women Could be Affected?
The implications of this decision are profound, especially considering that approximately 60% of women in the UK experience at least one pelvic health symptom. Common issues include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and chronic pelvic pain. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing these conditions effectively. Delays in treatment can lead to a deterioration in quality of life, increased mental health challenges, and, in some cases, the need for more invasive surgical interventions.
How Will This Effect Physio Services?
The strain on NHS physiotherapy services further complicates the situation. A shortage of physiotherapists has led to increased waiting times, with some patients waiting up to four months for an appointment. This delay not only prolongs patient discomfort but can also result in the worsening of conditions, making them more challenging to treat. The CSP has highlighted the need for a 7% annual increase in NHS physiotherapy positions to meet the rising demand.
As a physiotherapist who has transitioned from the NHS to private practice, I’ve witnessed firsthand the disparities in service provision. While the NHS strives to offer comprehensive care, systemic challenges and recent cuts to women’s health services mean that many patients struggle to access timely treatment. This reality has led to an increasing number of individuals seeking private healthcare options. A report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation highlighted that many people now anticipate paying for private healthcare, including physiotherapy, due to prolonged NHS queues. This trend underscores a critical shift in public expectations regarding the NHS’s ability to provide timely, universal care.
At Head2Toe Physio, we recognize the importance of early, specialized intervention. Our team of expert physiotherapists is dedicated to offering comprehensive, one-on-one care without the burden of long waiting lists. We understand that seeking private treatment is a significant decision. If you’re uncertain whether private physiotherapy is the right choice for you, we invite you to reach out. We’re here to discuss your concerns, explore your treatment options, and provide the support you need to make an informed decision about your health.
If you or anyone you know, would like to have a Women’s Health Physiotherapy assessment with Evie or Anna at Dorking or Leatherhead, book online here or contact us here.
Blog post guest written by Evie Spreadbury, Women’s Health Specialist Physiotherapist, member of Pelvic, Obstetric & Gynacological Physiotherapists (POGP), Dorking, & Leatherhead Clinics.
https://www.csp.org.uk/news/2025-01-28-csp-raises-concerns-over-cuts-nhs-targets
Benenden Hospital (n.d.) Eight women’s pelvic health signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Available at: https://www.benendenhospital.org.uk/health-news/womens-health/eight-womens-pelvic-health-signs-that-shouldn-t-be-ignored/ (Accessed: 03/02/2025)
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (2025) ‘CSP raises concerns over cuts to women’s health hub expansion plans’, CSP. Available at: https://www.csp.org.uk/news/2025-01-28-csp-raises-concerns-over-cuts-womens-health-hub-expansion-plans (Accessed: 01/02/2025)
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (2025) ‘CSP raises concerns over cuts to NHS targets’ , CSP. Available at: https://www.csp.org.uk/news/2025-01-28-csp-raises-concerns-over-cuts-nhs-targets (Accessed 01/02/2025)
Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2024) ‘NHS queues mean most Britons expect to pay for healthcare, says report’, The Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/society/article/2024/aug/31/nhs-queues-mean-most-britons-expect-to-pay-for-healthcare-says-report (Accessed: 01/02/2025)
