Regional orthopaedic waiting list progress

Date published: 21 January 2026

This is part of wider efforts to expand elective capacity and improve access for patients across Northern Ireland.

Utilising independent sector capacity alongside improvements in theatre efficiency, the SWAH programme is enabling more patients to receive timely access to life-changing joint replacement surgery. Many patients are now discharged on the same day of surgery or early the following morning, supported by streamlined theatre pathways, enhanced physiotherapy and strengthened post-operative recovery arrangements. A robust follow-up pathway ensures continuity of care and appropriate escalation routes.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt visited SWAH to meet staff and patients benefiting from hip and knee surgery. During the visit, the Minister observed patient flow through theatre, recovery and rehabilitation, hearing first-hand how effective and efficient the model has become for patients requiring major joint surgery.

The Minister said: “I have been determined to reduce the waiting lists for hip and knee surgery so patients can experience the profound and often life-altering reduction in pain that the procedures can deliver. For many, receiving surgery not only eliminates chronic pain, but it also restores their mobility and allows a much greater quality of life.

“These results show that meaningful progress is possible when all parts of the system work together with a shared focus on patients. By improving the way theatres are used and making full use of available capacity, including the independent sector, we are reducing long waits and helping people regain mobility and quality of life.

“Reducing waiting lists is a key priority for my Department. With the support of Professor Mark Taylor and clinical colleagues in every Trust, we are building a more resilient elective system that is better able to meet current and future demand.”

A key driver of progress has been the relentless focus on maximising surgical throughput and performance. The increase in waiting list activity coupled with increased theatre productivity is having a positive impact on waiting times. The number of patients who were projected to be waiting over 6 years for a primary joint replacement by 31 March 2026 have reduced by 76% and the number of patients projected to be waiting over 4 years have reduced by 65% as at the end of December 2025.

SWAH has been able to deliver major joint procedures (knee and hip) on a single extended full day list, maximising capacity and ensuring that available theatre time is fully used for patient benefit.

It is expected that approximately 550 primary joint replacements will be delivered at SWAH in the current financial year, with around 430 already completed between April 2025 and mid-January this year. This activity highlights SWAH’s contribution as a key elective site and reflects the Department’s ongoing work to reduce long waits for orthopaedic surgery.

The SWAH regional orthopaedic programme forms part of the Elective Care Framework which sets out plans to expand elective surgical capacity, improve productivity and reduce long waits. The Department continues to work with Trusts, clinical leaders and the independent sector to embed best practice models, drive efficiency and build long-term elective resilience.