Progress on waiting times but more funding needed

Efforts to reduce waiting times to see a consultant at Noble's hospital have paid off in some areas - but further progress will require extra funding.

That's the conclusion of a detailed study into the impact efficiency measures at the Department of Health have had on waiting times.

In the past 16 months there's been a 7% fall in the overall number of people waiting to see a consultant, while average waiting times have dropped by 8%.

But in several specialist areas - dermatology, ear, nose and throat and orthopaedics - waiting lists remain high.

In two specialisms they've increased.   

Health chiefs are warning more resources are needed to reduce the waits - and the NHS may have to stop offering some treatments altogether to improve the situation. 

Member for health Dudley Butt MLC says treating more people in the community would help: