HOW do we improve the NHS? -- cut waiting lists is the public answer.

Then let this start with the public -- confirm appointments immediately, enabling cancelled ones to be replaced by another patient on the list.

Many appointments are wasted by patients who just fail to attend with no explanation.

Others do not confirm, which means the hospital has to telephone them (more expense) and in many cases are told: "Oh, I was going to ring -- I don't want the test now." Come on -- start being more thoughtful. There are many anxious people waiting who would be only too grateful to attend at short notice.

Don't waste precious appointments and doctors and nurses precious time. The doctors, nurses and clerical staff are working extra hours and weekends to cut these lists. The public should play their part too.

Wasted appointments may mean someone on the the list, who needs an early appointment, is waiting longer than necessary due to pure selfishness and a couldn't-care-less attitude.

B PARRINGTON, Rockcliffe Street, Blackburn.