WAITING times for people needing specialist medical treatment at Preston Acute Hospitals have been slashed according to health chiefs.

Figures released this week show the number of people waiting for treatment stood at 7,658 last month, a drop of three per cent drop on January's figures.

And the unfortunate patients who have waited more than 12 months for specialist operations, except for seven people needing neurosurgery and ophthalmology treatment, have at least been advised of dates for their ops.

The total figure is lower than the trust's annual target of 7,849 and is expected to fall further before the end of the financial year in April.

Chairman of the trust board Brian Booth praised the dedication of hospital staff. He said: "Last year we had challenging targets to meet but I am pleased to confirm that we have achieved them and will continue to do so.

"The work done by staff is remarkable. I thank them all for the effort they have shown to help us achieve this figure."

The figures show that less than 53 per cent of patients have to wait more than 12 months for specialist treatment and none more than 16 months.

Favourable results were also given for outpatient treatment, but the report concluded that an extra cash investment was required for orpthopaedics and ophthalmology so that a further 400 new patients could be seen.

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