Opening the NICON26 conference in Belfast on 7 October, Health Minister Robbie Butler presented his vision for transforming the health and social care system across Northern Ireland.
The minister stated that the proposed system must ensure safe, timely and high-quality care is available to citizens.
Butler argued that meaningful reform requires moving beyond structural changes to focus on how better care functions for patients.
He described the goal as delivering treatment, assessment and diagnostics earlier, closer to home and at the moment of greatest need.
Data presented at the event indicated that more than 36,800 additional patients received treatment, assessment or diagnostics during the first quarter of 2026/27.
Waiting lists for priority procedures saw a reduction of 25% in the same period.
Since June 2022, the number of patients waiting for endoscopy has fallen by more than 28,000 cases.
The Lagan Valley Regional Day Procedure Centre has completed almost 26,000 procedures since its opening and holds Getting It Right First Time accreditation as the first facility of its kind on the island of Ireland to do so.
Efficiencies and savings amounting to over £300 million were delivered in the previous year according to the minister's report.