Health Minister Claire Christian has outlined steps to reduce waiting times for endoscopy procedures, citing the purchase of new equipment as a key measure.
Referrals are categorised as suspected cancer, urgent, or routine.
Data shows 60% of referrals are for suspected cancer, with urgent and routine at 35.5% and 4.5% respectively. Current average waiting times are 2.5 months for urgent procedures and 5.5 months for routine.
“In April 2025, new endoscopy equipment was purchased, reducing lost activity, and significantly improving the experience for patients and staff,” said Ms Christian.
She acknowledged ageing equipment had previously increased maintenance downtime.
The unit is also training a second nurse endoscopist to increase capacity.
Ms Christian confirmed that cancer pathway patients are prioritised, with no delay in accessing diagnostics. Performance against the six-week diagnostic target remains between 45% and 50%.