Probe into communication with patients on waiting lists launched

An investigation into how Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Trusts communicate with patients on healthcare waiting lists has been launched by the Public Services Ombudsman.

It will examine whether patients are told if they have been added to a waiting list, if their case is classed as ‘urgent’ or ‘routine’, and how long they might have to wait.

It will also look at whether and how often patients are updated.

Northern Ireland's waiting lists have previously been branded the worst in the UK.

Earlier this year, Ombudsman Margaret Kelly sent inquires to the Trusts and the Department.

After a detailed look at the responses from these bodies, as well as a review of a number of complaints brought to the Ombudsman’s Office, Ms Kelly has decided that an investigation should be carried out to see if the system is working in the best interests of patients.

If you have been personally impacted by waiting lists in NI, you can contact us at news@downtown.co.uk

How to listen to Cool FM:

Tune into Northern Ireland’s number 1 for music, Cool FM on 97.4FM, online, on our Rayo app, your DAB radio, or say ‘Play Cool FM’ on your Smart Speaker. We play you the biggest hits from the world’s hottest artists, from Pete Snodden in the morning to the NI Hit 40.