All of NHS England’s diagnostic and main cancer targets were missed yet again, the RCR stated. "It is wrong to suggest that these delays are wholly a result of industrial action. In February 2022, prior to the first round of doctors strikes, the CT and MRI waiting list stood at over 86,000. Doctors and NHS staff continue to work incredibly hard to deliver care as evidenced in improvements in cancer waiting times."

To clear the six-week wait backlog in one month, the NHS would have to hire 386 additional radiologists overnight, equivalent to 10% of the workforce, according to the RCR.