World Apr 24, 2026 · 1 min read

One in 10 operations in England cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice

Nearly 40% of cancellations could be avoided, researchers sayAbout one in 10 operations in England are cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice or postponed, according to research..A study of elective surgery at 91 English NHS trusts found that 10% of operations were cancelled the day before the pl...

The Guardian

by Anna Bawden Health and social affairs correspondent

One in 10 operations in England cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice

Nearly 40% of cancellations could be avoided, researchers say

About one in 10 operations in England are cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice or postponed, according to research..

A study of elective surgery at 91 English NHS trusts found that 10% of operations were cancelled the day before the planned surgery date; while 9% were postponed when patients had their pre-op appointment.

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This article was originally published by The Guardian and written by Anna Bawden Health and social affairs correspondent.

Read original article on The Guardian

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One in 10 operations in England cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice

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