NHS in Manchester begins rationing procedures

Government cutbacks in NHS funding appear to be taking effect as a trust in Manchester has begun rationing certain procedures.

Under a policy drawn up by the Association of Greater Manchester Primary Care Trusts, children will only be able to have their tonsils removed if they suffer from at least five bouts of illness over more than a year.

They will also need to show that these illnesses have stopped them living a normal life.

Certain cosmetic surgeries, such as the removal of non-impacted wisdom teeth, are also to be scrapped in most cases.

Alan Johnson, president of ENT-UK, an association of ear, nose and throat surgeons, said the NHS is trying to conceal the cutbacks from the public.

"The NHS is presenting the image of 'business as usual' to the public while plans are well under way to radically reduce access to effective treatments to save money," he said.

"This lack of transparency is unfair on patients and doctors."

The news comes after the new health minister Andrew Lansley announced that the efficiency savings in the NHS are a priority for the coalition government.

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