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04/03/2004
Hospital waiting lists fall
Hospital waiting lists have fallen for the fifth consecutive quarter, Health Minister Angela Smith has revealed.
According to the figures, hospital inpatient and day case waiting lists have decreased by more than 5,000 over the past 12 months.
Over 27,000 patients (73%) seen between September and December 2003, had been waiting less than three months, and nearly 35,000 patients (94%) had been waiting less than 12 months. Waiting lists are now at their lowest level since March 2001.
Commenting on the release of the December 2003 waiting list figures, the Minister said: “The figures published today are a clear demonstration that our investment in more doctors and nurses and in additional hospital beds is having a direct impact on waiting lists.
"I am determined to see this trend continue. Health will continue to be this government’s top priority next year, with an investment of over £3 billion in health and social care services."
(MB)
According to the figures, hospital inpatient and day case waiting lists have decreased by more than 5,000 over the past 12 months.
Over 27,000 patients (73%) seen between September and December 2003, had been waiting less than three months, and nearly 35,000 patients (94%) had been waiting less than 12 months. Waiting lists are now at their lowest level since March 2001.
Commenting on the release of the December 2003 waiting list figures, the Minister said: “The figures published today are a clear demonstration that our investment in more doctors and nurses and in additional hospital beds is having a direct impact on waiting lists.
"I am determined to see this trend continue. Health will continue to be this government’s top priority next year, with an investment of over £3 billion in health and social care services."
(MB)
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