Commenting on the latest progress reports by NHS Boards across Scotland, which show all boards meeting a number of key national waiting times targets, Sturgeon said she wanted to thank NHS staff for their dedication and commitment.

Among the targets met at 31 December were: no patient waited more than 18 weeks for a first outpatient consultation following a GP referral; no patient waited more than 18 weeks for inpatient/day case treatment; main hospital A&E Departments achieved the four hours target for admission, discharge or transfer during December 2007; the whole journey target of 18 weeks for cataract treatment; and the whole journey target of 16 weeds for cardiac intervention.

Sturgeon said that NHS staff have played a vital role in achieving these results. She said: “They should take great satisfaction from the knowledge that their hard work in improving waiting times targets will ensure the best possible services for patients.

She continued: “The progress that is being shown across a wide range of targets is only possible through the goodwill and effort of everyone working in the health service.

“It is extremely positive news that patients are now being treated more quickly than ever before. This will make a real difference to them and their families as they cope with the demands of being unwell.”