The NHS performed a record number of checks for treatments, cancer checks and other tests for June, as 18-week performance hit its best level in three years.
NHS leaders will face new performance-based pay system with bonuses for improved patient care and penalties for failing trust executives.
The total waiting list for procedures and appointments fell to 7.40 million in February, down from 7.43 million in January, the sixth consecutive monthly decline.
Trust leaders are bracing themselves for another tough winter with concerns mounting over whether the health service can meet key performance targets, a new NHS Providers survey reveals.
Sandwell, West MidlandsBand F, SCP26 - 31 (£37,280 - £41,771) per annum
Sandwell, West MidlandsBand F, SCP26 - 31 (£37,280 - £41,771) per annum