The number of patients who waited longer than 18 weeks for treatment in Medway has jumped 32% since the Tory-led Government took power in May 2010.
New Department of Health figures for Medway PCT show that since May 2010 the number of people waiting for more than 18 weeks for surgery and other procedures increased from 99 to 131.
Under Labour waiting times had fallen thanks to a guarantee of treatment for any disease within 18 weeks of first seeing a doctor. This ensured a quick diagnosis and swift follow up action.
However, that guarantee was scrapped by Health Secretary Andrew Lansley as one of his first acts after the General Election.
David Cameron’s Government has also embarked on a £2billion reorganisation of the NHS to allow privatisation and competition. A move being opposed by doctors, nurses and midwives.
Peter Skinner MEP said,
“In Medway we have seen the number of people waiting longer than 18 weeks leap 32% since David Cameron took charge of the health system. That is a shocking record and shows the Government’s total lack of commitment to the NHS.
Patient care should be the priority but instead Cameron is ploughing on with his Health Bill, ignoring public and professional opinion. Not only is it a dangerous distraction but his £2 billion reorganisation will privatise our NHS and force patients to wait even longer for urgent treatments.
It’s time for David Cameron to listen to our doctors and nurses and drop the bill.”
Cllr Theresa Murray, Medway Labour Spokesperson for Health and Adult Social Care, said,
“Waiting lists are a real priority for patients but instead of ensuring people can feel confident that they will get the treatment they need to get well Cameron is insisting on a costly and pointless reorganisation of the NHS that will lead to more privatisation. I want people in Medway to have the decent well funded health service they deserve. The health and social care bill confuses patients and is not wanted by professionals.”
Notes:
| Number of admitted patients who waited longer than 18 weeks (admitted adjusted pathways) by Primary Care Trust |
|||||||
| Primary Care Trust | May 2010 | November 2011 | % change May to Nov 2011 | ||||
| Medway PCT | 99 | 131 | 32% | ||||
Department of Health Statistical press release:
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsStatistics/DH_132263
