Na H-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP, Angus Brendan MacNeil has welcomed figures published today by the Information Services Division (IDS), which show that more than 90 per cent of patients in Scotland are now being treated within 18 weeks from initial referral to start of treatment.

Mr MacNeil said:

“We are all too well aware of the anxiety illness causes to individuals and families, lengthy delay in receiving treatment often causes more worry.  These statistics show the great work being undertaken in the National Health Service in Scotland.

“Changes to internal systems within the NHS in Scotland have ensured that links are in place for each patient to be seen in the right care setting at the right time.

“In 2007, over 29,000 people were stuck on ‘hidden waiting lists’ not getting the treatment they needed and the maximum wait to get an appointment was six months.

“Thankfully The Health Service in Scotland is independently controlled and this is a perfect example of the benefits of controlling our own powers. Especially when we see the controversies surrounding NHS provision under the Tory/Liberal in England.

“However, the SNP Government plans to build on this success and From October 2012 Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon, who has praised the efforts of those across the Scottish NHS,  wants patients requiring inpatient or day case treatment will be covered by a 12 week Treatment Time Guarantee enshrined in law.”

ENDS