Patients in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have benefitted from more than 42,000 additional NHS treatments over the past year, new figures show.
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust carried out 42,679 extra elective procedures, including operations, specialist consultations and diagnostic tests. The increase has provided thousands of patients with planned care sooner and has eased pressure on waiting lists.
Across England, the NHS delivered over five million additional appointments, more than double the original target of two million. The boost covers planned, non-emergency healthcare and forms part of efforts to tackle delays and ensure patients receive treatment when they need it.
The figures highlight progress made locally in expanding services. University Hospitals Dorset has been working to increase elective capacity so that more residents can access care more quickly.
Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale said the rise in treatments represents “real progress” for local families, but also acknowledged that further efforts are needed to cut waiting times.
Health leaders say the additional appointments are helping reduce delays for patients, with further measures being explored to build on this progress in the year ahead.
Who are we? We're building a new independent free news source for BCP and east Dorset, with fewer ads, less clutter, and no filler articles. And we'd love your support. Please help us grow locally by letting your friends know about us on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.