§ Bob SpinkTo 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. HuttonThe 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 159W 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 SpinkTo 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. HuttonThe 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.