Gray vows to ‘drive improvements’ in A&E waiting times

More than two-fifths of patients waited longer than the target time in accident and emergency departments over the new year, the latest figures show.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said he is determined to “drive improvements” after he met health board leaders alongside the First Minister on Monday evening.

Performance against the four-hour A&E target was at 58.7% in the week ending January 5, up slightly from 58.2% the previous week.

Public Health Scotland’s data shows attendances of more than eight hours were up to 18.3% from 16.2% previously.

Attendances of more than 12 hours rose to 9.1% from 6.9% previously.

Mr Gray said high levels of flu cases continue to put pressure on the NHS.

He said: “Our A&E departments are still facing peak winter pressure and this has been exacerbated by higher than normal levels of influenza.

“NHS staff are working hard to ensure patients are seen as quickly as possible, but we know some people are waiting too long and we are determined to drive improvements.

“Last night, I, along with the First Minister, held a further meeting with health boards and key stakeholders to assess system pressures and discuss ongoing work to minimise delays for patients.

“I thank the public for continuing to do their part in observing the advice on the best way to access services – it is vital people only attend A&E in a genuine emergency.

“If this is not the case, there are online tools at NHS Inform, and NHS 24 can be contacted on 111. For life-threatening emergencies always call 999.

“I would urge all those eligible to get vaccinated to help combat high levels of influenza.”

Scottish Labour health spokeswoman Dame Jackie Baillie said: “These spiralling waits show that the SNP has lost control of our NHS.

“With nearly one in five Scots waiting more than eight hours to be treated and nearly one in 10 waiting more than 12, A&E is starting to resemble Russian roulette.

“The UK Labour Government delivered a record Budget settlement but it’s essential the SNP spends the money on improving frontline services rather than frittering it away doing more of the same.

“Our NHS needs a new direction and Scottish Labour is ready to deliver it.”