Minister warns cutting waiting lists can be expensive

Tue, 18 Oct 2011

Health Minister David Anderson MHK

The Health Minister says there's no quick fix to waiting lists at Noble's Hospital.

David Anderson says his Department is looking to bring waiting lists down, but says some strategies can be costly, and don't provide a long term solution.

South Douglas MHK Kate Beecroft asked Mr Anderson to explain what his Department is doing to reduce waiting lists in Tynwald this morning.

Currently, the average diabetic patient waits 30 weeks for an appointment after their referral, whilst those with respiratory problems spend an average of a year waiting.

The Minister says his Department doesn't have excessive funds available to throw at the problem [play clip]