Dorset County Hospital has met the new NHS standard for waiting times.
The new guidelines – introduced in January – say all NHS patients will be treated within 18 weeks.
The Dorchester hospital met the target a month early – and the median wait for patients is now just 11 weeks.
Director of operations Rupert Wainwright said the good results were achieved despite severe winter pressures.
He said: “Since December 2008 we have consistently provided treatment within 18 weeks for more than 90 per cent of our admitted patients for all specialities. Dorset County Hospital was a leader in the county by achieving treatment in time for every speciality.
“Our good results show how Dorset County Hospital puts patient care first.”
Mr Wainwright said waiting times at the Dorchester hospital have particularly improved in orthopaedics.
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