Motions, questions and answers

NHS staff are expected to support patients who are waiting for treatment by involving them in all decisions being taken about their healthcare. This includes clear and open communication with patients over when their appointment will be, whether their appointment will be over the 12 weeks Treatment Time Guarantee standard and the reasons for this, and any pre-appointment information and details that will assist the patient prepare for their treatment or surgery. In addition, patients who may be suffering discomfort as a result of a long wait should contact their GP or other NHS staff to ensure they access the full range of medical support available to them.
Performance across many parts of the NHS is below the standards expected which is why I launched the Waiting Times Improvement Plan in October. The Plan will ensure that patients have swift and safe access to the full range of services from NHSScotland and will direct investment of more than £850 million to substantially and sustainably improve waiting times in the face of rising demand for services by spring 2021. The Plan sets out a range of actions and milestones to be met to ensure that long waits for NHS treatment are eradicated and that the targets and standards set for treatment times are consistently met. Successful delivery of the Plan will ensure that patients receive safe, effective and person-centred healthcare.
Scottish Government Officials are working with all territorial Health Boards to ensure that they develop appropriate plans to ensure the successful delivery of the Improvement Plan.