Statistical press notice - NHS inpatient and outpatient waiting times figures - February 2010

Inpatient Waiting times

-          The number of patients, for whom English commissioners are responsible, waiting over the 26 weeks standard at the end of February 2010 was 28.

-          The number of patients, for whom English commissioners are responsible, waiting over 13 weeks at the end of February 2010 was 70,200 an increase of 2,500 (3.7%) from January 2010, and a rise of 22,600 (47.6%) from February 2009.

-          The percentage of patients waiting under 13 weeks was 88.8%, compared to 89.3% in January 2010 and 91.7% in February 2009.  The median waiting time of those still waiting at the end of February 2010 was 4.4 weeks.

Outpatient Waiting times

-          The number of patients, for whom English commissioners are responsible, waiting over the 13 weeks standard for a first outpatient appointment following GP referral at the end of February 2010 was 126.

-          The number of patients, for whom English commissioners are responsible, waiting over 8 weeks at the end of February 2010 was 41,800, which is a decrease of 32,300 (43.6%) from January 2010, and a rise of 14,200 (51.6%) from February 2009.

-          The percentage of patients waiting under 8 weeks was 95.5%, compared to 91.9% in January 2010 and 96.8% in February 2009. The median waiting time of those still waiting at the end of February 2010 was 2.6 weeks.

A summary of the recent consultation into the future of this statistical publication can now be found at the following address.  As a result, this monthly publication will cease after the release for month ending 31 March 2010, due for publication on 30 April 2010.

http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Responsestoconsultations/DH_113138