The NHS has started 2009/10 in a strong position by sustaining delivery on key priorities such as reducing waiting times and healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), according to the Department of Health.
The Quarter 1 (April-June 2009) performance report said that the NHS maintained delivery of the standard to treat all patients within 18 weeks from referral to treatment, which came into effect from January 2009. In addition, the number of cases of healthcare-associated infections has continued to fall, with a 39.3% reduction in MRSA infections compared to the same quarter last year – a 74% reduction against the 2003/04 baseline. The NHS has also sustained its financial health in the first quarter and is forecasting a year-end surplus in 2009/10 of £1,476 million. The DH will reduce the surplus by around £800 m over the next two years and use this money to re-invest in better health services.
