Targets to reduce the number of outpatient appointments are not being met by trusts. On this epsiode we discuss why the number of outpatient appointments has remained stuck at £124m, despite pressure to cut them, and what is being done about it.

Also this week, an update on integrated care systems’ finances and what is worrying them at the moment, plus a preview from HSJ’s forthcoming interview with NHSE chief financial officer Julian Kelly.

For more on outpatient appointment challenges, read James' Recovery Watch column: https://www.hsj.co.uk/expert-briefings/recovery-watch-new-data-lays-bare-outpatient-transformation-failings/7034898.article

The elective activity the NHS wants to cut - but can't