Health Minister Howard Quayle says action is being taken to tackle lengthy NHS waiting lists.

Responding to a question in the House of Keys from Michael MHK Alf Cannan, who wanted to know what steps are being taken to reduce waiting times, Mr Quayle said he was targeting 'hot spots'. These included orthopaedics where he says hip and knee operation lists have been reduced by one year, weekend endoscopy lists and extra pain management clinics.

Mr Quayle said: 'Waiting times remain a challenge for my department. UK hospitals are also facing similar difficulties, in that they are failing to meet waiting list targets and expect this position to worsen over the winter months.'

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