With a recent update to THRIVE we have introduced an additional three tags at the request of one of the Trusts using the system. While we do regularly update our list of available tags these tags are of significant importance as they are used to directly measure the number of lists being performed from different funding streams.

Funding Stream Tags added in October 2023 

• Additional Capacity

  Additional endoscopy capacity funded directly by the trust. This can include Waiting List Initiative lists and insourcing lists.

• CDC Capacity

  Lists that are being performed from a CDC funding stream

• Network Capacity

  Lists that are being funded by the alliance/network and is above core capacity

Any lists that are not given one of these new funding stream tags are considered a Core Capacity List which constitute the majority of lists performed on THRIVE. 

While THRIVE is also able to monitor other disciplines, such as Bronchoscopy and Cystoscopy, it is primarily an Endoscopy tool so we use the application of tags in lists on the platform for any ‘non-standard’ lists such as those being performed by Bronchoscopy/Cystoscopy teams. As a rule, when analysing lists in reporting, we consider any untagged lists to be a Core capacity, 4 hour Endoscopy list – any exceptions to this need to be tagged to be counted differently.

Now that these new tags are in place, it is possible to monitor the number of these lists being performed at all locations each week, allowing for clear information on where funding is going and how it is being used.

The system’s built-in live reporting can show exactly how many procedures are being performed in relation to any of these three additional funding streams, and therefore inform understanding of how this additional funding has an impact on reducing the ever growing waiting list for a diagnostic procedure.

The current state of waiting lists 

The national expected standard for patients waiting over 6 weeks for a diagnostic test is 1%, yet since the COVID-19 crisis this has not been achieved nationally in a single month. As of August 2023, 27.5% of patients were waiting longer than 6 weeks after referral for a diagnostic procedure.

By giving trusts and alliances the ability to monitor any increase in completed procedures due to extra funding streams, they are able to put together strong business cases which help to prove the worth of this extra funding and demonstrate that the money they have been allocated is being put to good use. 

As trusts, alliances and departments find themselves competing for the same resources, being able to quickly produce this vital information can ensure funding remains in the places it will get the best usage and help the most to reduce the NHS’ growing waiting list.