NHS staff across Mersey and West Lancashire are being praised for their role in a record-breaking year for patient care, as new figures show more people than ever are being treated across the North West.
National data published today shows the NHS delivered its highest ever number of operations, tests and appointments in a single year with thousands fewer patients waiting for treatment.
At Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (MWL), this progress is making a real difference for local communities, with more patients being seen, diagnosed and treated sooner.
Sustained improvements throughout the year mean that in March 2026 over 8 in 10 patients received a diagnosis or had cancer ruled out within 28 days, with close to 90% starting treatment within 62 days, significantly outperforming the national picture.
Alongside this, waiting times for operations and treatment have reduced, particularly in recent months and several services at MWL are being recognised nationally for their quality, innovation and impact.
The Trust is the highest volume provider of benign prostate surgery in the country, with specialist services attracting patients from across the UK.
Stroke Services at Whiston Hospital have also been ranked number one in the country in the latest national audit.
In Dermatology, the use of artificial intelligence is helping patients get faster answers, supporting more than 5,000 people in the past year, with many avoiding a hospital visit and getting quicker reassurance or diagnosis.
The Musculoskeletal Therapy Outpatient Service at Ormskirk Hospital is also delivering nationally recognised results, improving access, reducing waiting times and setting a benchmark for high-quality, efficient care.
Rob Cooper, Chief Executive, said: “It’s really encouraging to see the progress we’ve made and the difference this is making for our patients. There is still more to do, but these results show what’s possible when our teams come together with focus and determination. I’m incredibly proud of our staff and the commitment they show every day to improving care for our communities.”
The Trust is working closely with NHS partners across the North West to highlight these successes, recognising the scale of progress being made despite continued pressures on services.