Chamber
Meeting of the Parliament (Hybrid) 24 March 2021
24 Mar 2021 · S5 · Meeting of the Parliament
Item of business
Portfolio Question Time
Cancer Pathway Review (Dumfries and Galloway)
Health and Sport
As I have previously explained, the pressures of the pandemic mean that NHS Dumfries and Galloway and the board’s partners have paused reviewing cancer pathways, which is a complex piece of work. They will return to the issue in the spring. As we see case numbers come down, the pressure on Dumfries and Galloway lessens.
I have set out in the chamber that the patient travel guidance will be comprehensively reviewed and will take full account of the matters that Ms Harper raises. The review is a substantial exercise for the Government and NHS boards, which requires prioritisation alongside our response not only to the pandemic but to the remobilisation of services. Further updates will be provided as the review progresses.
In the same item of business
5. Emma Harper (South Scotland) (SNP)
SNP
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the short review into cancer pathway arrangements and reimbursement of travel expenses fo...
The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport (Jeane Freeman)
SNP
As I have previously explained, the pressures of the pandemic mean that NHS Dumfries and Galloway and the board’s partners have paused reviewing cancer pathw...
Emma Harper
SNP
I thank the cabinet secretary for everything that she has done in this Parliament and wish her all the very best for the future. My constituent Dr Gordon Ba...
Jeane Freeman
SNP
I am happy to go beyond that principle. I know that Emma Harper will be familiar with Professor Sir Lewis Ritchie, who has undertaken considerable and valuab...
Elaine Smith (Central Scotland) (Lab)
Lab
On the issue of the reimbursement of patients’ travel expenses, will the Scottish Government consider reviewing the reimbursement of chronic pain patients wh...
The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport (Jeane Freeman)
SNP
Elaine Smith has been a doughty champion of that and many other issues during her time in Parliament, and I extend my wishes to her. Elaine Smith raises a r...