SNP ‘failing Scots with epilepsy’ due to seizure clinic waits, says Labour

Scottish Labour has accused the SNP of “failing” people with epilepsy, as figures showed rising waiting times for seizure clinics in parts of Scotland.

Anas Sarwar’s party published data obtained through freedom of information requests, showing four health boards had increases in the median waiting time for seizure clinics in the five years to 2024.

Seven health boards provided data on access to first seizure clinics.

The figures also showed one patient waited 722 days for access to a seizure clinic, which are used to diagnose epilepsy.

GPs often refer a patient who has had their first suspected seizure to a seizure clinic or an epilepsy specialist at hospital, who will attempt to diagnose the condition.

Scottish Labour health spokeswoman Dame Jackie Baillie said: “These rising waits for crucial clinics show the SNP is failing Scots with epilepsy.

“A first seizure is a frightening experience for anyone, yet with the right support and treatment, many Scots with epilepsy can live active and healthy lives.

“The SNP must urgently investigate why patients are having to wait so long for clinics when this is the first step to managing their condition.

“Scottish Labour will invest in prevention rather than crisis so that patients can get the treatment they need.”

The Scottish Government said it is funding a framework which aims to ensure those with neurological conditions receive the care they need.

A spokeswoman said: “We’re laser-focused on cutting waiting times and we’re making progress – 64.6% of new outpatient appointments were seen within 12 weeks last quarter, and over 40% of those still waiting have waited less than 12 weeks.

“We have committed almost £650,000 since 2020 to projects which improve the health and wellbeing of people with epilepsy, over £400,000 through our neurological care and support framework.”

Epilepsy Scotland chief executive Lesslie Young emphasised the importance of the clinics.

She said: “Diagnosing and controlling seizures early is vital for the health of someone newly diagnosed with epilepsy.

“Consequently, first seizure clinics are a critical component of how we treat people in Scotland with the condition.

“The pressures on the health service are well understood, however delays in first seizure clinic access highlight the need for greater focus and spend specifically on epilepsy and its treatment.

“Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition affecting more people in Scotland than MND, MS, Parkinson’s, and type 2 diabetes combined, yet it lacks comparative awareness and funding. It is time that changed.”