We too in A&E have targets. We have to have 98% of patients out of the department in 4 hours or less. We too have "End of Year Madness." We are currently at 97.94. That doesn't round up to 98. No, that would be too easy. So the Management go round with clipboards, making sure that every time a patient nears the 4 hours everyone knows, and everything possible is done to move them on. Patients are admitted to a busy ward, just so that they don't breach the 4 hours, only to be discharged an hour or so later. Don't get me wrong; I remember how awful A&E Departments were, for patients and staff alike, pre target. It's just when the target becomes an all consuming god that I despair. Oh, and by the way, Tom, thanks for mentioning my blog - one word from you and my hits go through the roof!!!