HC Deb 17 December 2001 vol 377 cc158-9W
Bob Spink

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the(a) average and (b) maximum waiting times were (i) to see an orthopaedic surgeon and (ii) between seeing an orthopaedic surgeon and having an operation where that was necessary in the last 12 months for which figures are available. [23244]

Mr. Hutton

The average (median) waiting times for in-patient and out-patient treatment as at September 2001 are given in the tables. The data collected for waiting times by specialty are available by quarter only, the latest data being quarter ending September 2001. Data on maximum waiting times are not collected; however the number of patients waiting over 26 weeks for out-patient treatment and the number of patients waiting over 18 months for in-patient treatment are given.

We are committed to reducing waiting times. We have allocated £75 million to tackle this in a number of specialties (ophthalmology, ear, nose and throat, dermatology and orthopaedics), through the action on programmes.

Trauma and orthopaedics out-patient waiting times
Average (median) waiting time (Weeks) Of those seen, number who waited 26+ weeks Percentage who waited 26+ weeks
September 2001 10.01 18,694 10.2

Note:

Data refer to patients who have been seen during quarter a first out-patient appointment following GP referral. All data are HA based

Source:

QM08R, QF01 quarterly waiting times returns

Trauma and orthopaedics in-patient waiting times
Average (median) waiting time (Months) Number still waiting 18+ months Percentage of total list waiting 18+ months
September 2001 4.24 73 0.03

Note:

All data are HA based

Source:

QM08R, QF01 quarterly waiting times returns

Bob Spink

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what use is being made in the NHS of orthopaedic physicians to reduce waiting times for orthopaedic surgeons. [23183]

Mr. Hutton

The Modernisation Agency's national health service orthopaedic service collaboratives programme shows a number of NHS trusts have developed innovative solutions to improving waiting times, access and throughput of patients. Trusts such as Gloucester Royal, Isle of Wight and Addenbrookes use orthopaedic physicians. These tend to be orthogeriatricians or rehabilitation physicians who focus on the care of the more elderly, anaesthetically vulnerable population after their operations.

The Modernisation Agency is also leading on the action on orthopaedics programme that has been developed by the Government. The aim of the action on orthopaedics programme is to significantly encourage and disseminate best practice; improve access to care; and reduce variations in waiting times.