Validated figures published today for the quarter ending September 2007 show that hospital waiting lists are continuing to fall.
In addition, provisional information for the end of November 2007 shows that the number of patients waiting over 13 weeks for a first outpatient appointment has reduced from almost 22,000 at March 2007 to less than 4,000 – a huge fall of 82%.
In relation to patients waiting for inpatient and daycase treatment, there were almost 2,000 patients waiting over 21 weeks at March 2007. Excluding the orthopaedic patients waiting to be treated in the independent sector, this has reduced to less than 50.
Commenting on the latest waiting list statistics, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: “Excellent progress continues to be made to reduce hospital waiting times and I commend healthcare staff for their efforts in delivering a high quality health service and real benefits for patients.
“I have set targets to ensure that by the end of March 2008 no patient will be waiting longer than 13 weeks for a first outpatient appointment, and no longer than 21 weeks for surgery. The improved performance announced today has been achieved through a comprehensive programme of investment and modernisation and I am confident the waiting time targets I have set for March 2008 will be met.
Turning to a small number of patients who waited for more than six months for orthopaedic surgery, the Minister said: “It is regrettable that a number of patients in the orthopaedic specialty were waiting longer than six months at the end of September. I have instructed my Department and the relevant Trust to take urgent action to ensure that these patients receive the treatment they require as soon as possible.”
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