Written question asked by Andrew Dismore (Labour) on Thursday, 13 February 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 26 February 2003. It was answered by Lord Hutton of Furness (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 February 2003 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what steps are being taken to reduce accident and emergency waiting times at Barnet Hospital; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps are being taken to reduce accident and emergency waiting times at Barnet Hospital; and if he will make a statement. [98934] Mr. Hutton: Improving the patients experience of emergency care is a top priority for the National Health Service. In light of this, Reforming Emergency Care was launched in October 2001, supported by a £118 million investment. It sets a long term programme of reform supported by extra investment and new capacity to address one of the public's key concerns about the National Health Service--waiting in accident and emergency (A &E). After successful introduction of the see and treat initiative at Chase Farm Hospital A & E, which has had a significant impart on the number of patients being seen within four hours, this is now being introduced at Barnet Hospital.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 98934; 400 c618W;400 c610W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Hospitals Standards Accident and emergency departments Barnet Hospital
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk