§ 22. Mrs. EllmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress is being made in reducing out-patient waiting lists in the North-west. [131873]
§ Mr. DenhamReducing waiting time for outpatient appointments is a Government priority. In the North-west, measures have been implemented including Outpatient Improvement Plans, an additional investment of £13 million on schemes having a direct impact on outpatient waiting times, and the sharing of good practice through "A Step by Step guide to improving outpatient services". Between June 1999 and June 2000, despite increased demand, these initiatives have been successful in reducing by 7,292 (8.8 per cent.) the number of patients waiting more than 13 weeks for an outpatient appointment. The NHS is aiming to achieve further reductions by March 2001.