For UK independent hospitals
Your spare theatre capacity could be generating millions in NHS waiting list revenue
Independent hospitals with underutilised theatres are well-placed to access NHS block contracts and waiting list initiative funding, but without a structured commercial approach, that capacity sits idle while the opportunity passes.
Two minutes. Solva follows up with specific NHS partnership and block contract options.
- Empty theatre slots or underutilised diagnostic equipment
- Limited or no NHS-funded patient activity despite local NHS waiting list pressures
- Lack of engagement with local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) or NHS trusts
- Over-reliance on private patient self-pay or PMI referrals
- Inefficient use of theatre and bed capacity, leading to lower throughput
- Staff underutilisation and potential morale issues due to lack of work
- Loss of potential revenue from NHS contracts, impacting profitability and sustainability
- Increased operational costs due to underutilised capacity and fixed overheads
- Delayed access to essential treatments for NHS patients
- Increased risk of disease progression for patients on long waiting lists
- Perception of being disconnected from the wider healthcare ecosystem
- Missed opportunities to demonstrate commitment to public health initiatives
The independent sector delivered 9.63% of all NHS-funded elective care in 2023 (IHPN Quarterly Data – NHS Activity, April 2024)
Source: https://www.ihpn.org.uk/ihpn-quarterly-data-nhs-activity-april-2024/
Frequently asked questions
Why does this problem persist?
NHS waiting list pressures have created significant demand for independent sector capacity, but accessing this revenue requires navigating NHS procurement processes, understanding the commercial frameworks including NHS Standard Contract terms, and building relationships with the right commissioners. Independent hospitals that have not proactively developed NHS partnership relationships are missing a revenue stream that can utilise spare capacity at predictable volumes and rates.
What is the cost of leaving it unaddressed?
A 200-bed independent hospital with 20% spare theatre capacity could generate £2 million to £5 million per year from NHS block contracts. Developing an NHS partnership strategy and commercial proposal costs £20,000 to £50,000. (NHS England, 2024)
This is exactly what I do with UK private practices. Answer the few questions above and I'll come back personally with where to start. Paul.