Patients waiting for a first consultant-led cardiology outpatient appointment on the Isle of Man are currently facing a median wait of 48 weeks, Tynwald has heard.
However, patients who attended their first appointment in September 2026 waited a median of 23 weeks.
Responding to a question from David Ashford SHK, Health Minister Claire Christian said increased demand, the complexity of cardiology conditions and capacity challenges within the service were contributing to the delays.
The minister said Manx Care was working to reduce waiting times through additional clinical capacity, process improvements and closer working with primary care.
An independent review commissioned by Manx Care CEO Dr Chris Stockport is also examining waiting list management and patient flow, with findings expected to be considered by Manx Care’s public board in November.
During the exchange, Ashford raised concerns about poor communication with patients whose urgent referrals are later downgraded without explanation.
Christian acknowledged the issue, saying both patients and GPs should be informed when a change in priority is made and that improving communication is a key focus of the review.
She added that work is also underway to improve referral pathways, allowing GPs more direct access to certain services and helping to shorten waiting times.
You can listen to the full exchange below:
