Think it really depends on what area you live in. Year long waiting lists where I am

That said I'm not complaining, I am not the critical end of the spectrum - my observation is that those with more urgent needs do get instant referrals and higher level response. Sadly from what I've seen though someone can go from less critical need to critical in the time it takes to get proper attention. Reading the article it seems it is happening in some areas, can only deduce it's a postcode lottery.