The time it takes to make a decision about a patient’s care has also reduced by a third – from around three hours to two. Faster decisions mean patients spend less time waiting for answers, helping to ease pressure in A&E, reduce overcrowding and make care safer. Dr Lottie Elliott says the department now feels calmer and more organised, with patients seen much earlier. “With demand continuing to rise, improving waiting times will become even more challenging, which is why progress like this matters. Further investment is planned as part of longer-term plans to continue improving urgent and emergency care at the hospital.