Waiting list pledge met, says Dobson
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A FALL in the number of people waiting for NHS treatment in England means the Government has fulfilled its pledge to cut queues to below pre- election levels, Frank Dobson said yesterday.
The Secretary of State for Health said the reduction was a "magnificent achievement" and reflected the "massive efforts" of NHS staff.
The Conservatives, however, accused Mr Dobson of fiddling the figures. They claimed many people were now waiting longer for an initial hospital appointment that would allow them to go on the official waiting lists.
The number of people waiting for treatment fell by 39,700 in February. The total now stands at 1,119,700 - 38,000 below the figure on 1 May 1997.
Mr Dobson also announced new targets yesterday to increase the number of initial out-patient appointments next year. But the British Medical Association said it would be "impossible" to meet the targets without more consultants.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments