NHS waiting time data 'unreliable,' group says

Patients in England cannot rely on information on waiting times for non-emergency operations, such as knee and hip replacements, a watchdog says. The National Audit Office (NAO) found wrong and inconsistent recording after reviewing 650 cases in seven trusts. The watchdog said it was unable to discern whether this was deliberate, but overall the practices concealed delays rather than over-recorded waits.
Background:
NHS waiting time data for elective surgery 'unreliable' [BBC]
Doubts over NHS waiting time figures, after watchdog uncovers 'inconsistencies' [The Independent]
NHS waiting times: 'Unreliable' stats hide delays [Sky News]