Validated figures published today show 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 3,000 at the end of December 2007.
In relation to patients waiting for inpatient and daycase treatment, there were almost 2,000 patients waiting over 21 weeks at March 2007. This has reduced to 455 at the end of December 2007.
The figures published today do however, reveal a number of patients waiting over six months for outpatient assessment and for inpatient or daycase treatment.
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. The number of patients waiting over 13 weeks for an outpatient appointment has fallen by almost 90% compared with the end of March 2007, and the number waiting over 21 weeks for surgery by almost 80%.”
In relation to the number of patients waiting over six months the Minister added: “It is however, unacceptable that a number of patients were waiting longer than six months for a first outpatient appointment and for surgery at the end of December. Almost all of these patients were waiting to be assessed or treated by an independent sector provider. I have taken steps to ensure that all of these patients are seen or treated as quickly as possible, in most cases before the end of this month.”
Notes to Editors:
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