The Leicester Mercury has won its campaign to expose the hidden waiting list for scans faced by patients at Leicester’s hospitals.

Two months ago the paper revealed the misery of patients waiting more than a year for a routine MRI scan.

Hospitals only have to publish a list for those waiting to see a specialist, or to have an operation, which meant the number of people waiting for the scans was “hidden” from the public.

Since the Mercury highlighted the problem, the hospital trust has agreed to start publishing the waiting list and take measures to cut waiting.

Ron Calvert, director of operations for the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said guidelines were now being agreed on what was an acceptable time to wait, and the average wait will then be published.

He said: “Adverse press headlines were recently seen when a patient drew attention to the fact they had to wait 53 weeks for an MRI scan.

“The clinical director of radiology is leading a project designed to define clinically-acceptable waiting times for a variety of conditions.”

Around 4,500 MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging – scans are carried out in Leicester each year.

Although cancer investigations take place within two weeks and other relatively serious investigations within four weeks, those waiting for non-urgent scans – like tinnitus – are often left waiting for more than a year.

Last month, the hospital trust agreed to find money to buy a new MRI scanner to diagnose patients quickly. It is due to come on line in February next year.

Back to the campaigns index

Do you have a story for us?
Ring the HoldTheFrontPage newsdesk on
01332 291111 x6022, or e-mail us now