§ Ms HarmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what reports he has received and what evidence he has assessed that the waiting list initiative has led to longer waits for urgent cases. [18061]
§ Mr. HoramWe have no evidence that the waiting list initiative has led to longer waits for urgent cases. Half of all admissions to hospital are immediate. Of those patients who go on to a waiting list, those who need urgent treatment are given priority. Decisions on when to admit patients are for doctors and must be based on their assessment of patients' clinical need.