Getting behind meeting targets in the NHS

The latest NHS Wales Diagnostic and Therapy Services waiting times should be welcomed as they show that, as of the 31st March 2009, no patients are waiting more than eight weeks for specified diagnostic services and that no one is waiting more than fourteen weeks for specified therapy services. This means that the WAG has met the targets set for these services. I just hope that these figures are replicated in the coming months.

I would just stress a note of caution about these stats too. While they are undoubtedly good for this group of patients, it is important that in blind focusing on targets (whatever they maybe) we do not adversely affect the services to others who may have far greater clinical priorities.

Increasing the involvement of doctors in prioritising the needs of patients will be essential in ensuring the NHS in Wales delivers optimal health services for the people of Wales within finite resources.

Waiting on waiting times

Looking at the latest NHS Wales waiting times, makes for worrying reading. There is quite clearly a rise in the number of patients waiting in these target areas. As such we would be extremely about the Welsh Assembly Government's ability to meet the two deadlines set for March 2009;


Reducing the maximum waiting time for inpatient or day case treatment to 14 weeks.


Reducing the maximum waiting time for a first outpatient appointment to 10 weeks.


If you also take into account the fact Winter is approaching, bringing with it the usual seasonal rise in emergency admissions, meeting these targets looks even less likely.