Health Minister Mike Nesbitt reported reductions in hospital waiting lists across Northern Ireland. Patients awaiting first consultant-led outpatient appointments decreased by more than 15,000 in the last quarter. Those waiting for inpatient or day case admissions dropped by 7,316, continuing a decline for the second quarter.

Diagnostic test waiting lists shrank by 6,663 patients from the previous quarter. Nesbitt called reducing waiting lists a key priority despite rising demand.

He credited healthcare staff with building capacity and increasing productivity. Nesbitt said staff efforts focus on providing timely treatment in suitable locations.

The minister noted ongoing pressures on services but pointed to reforms aimed at meeting patient needs. He placed healthcare staff at the center of efforts to expand elective capacity and improve outcomes.

Nesbitt expects the Elective Care Framework to drive more progress. This includes elective care facilities, updated outpatient services, GP procedures, and digital care delivery.

In Enniskillen, Nesbitt addressed the Working Rurally in Northern Ireland Conference organised by the Royal College of General Practitioners.