NHS referral targets missed again

Edinburgh West MP Christine Jardine has accused Humza Yousaf and the Scottish Government of mismanagement after NHS Lothian missed key referral targets again.  

Between the 1st of October 2022 to 31st of December 2022, only 80% of people referred for help with problematic drug or alcohol use in Lothian waited three weeks or less for specialist treatment.

This is the tenth consecutive quarter that the authority has missed the Scottish Government’s target of 90%.

She said, “It is unacceptable that those relying on these services are having to wait weeks and weeks to get treatment.

“Humza Yousaf may have a new position but the mess he has left behind in his previous role as Health Minister is clear for all to see. This is just yet another unfortunate reminder.

“These figures are another example of a health service underperforming under the SNP. Patients and staff alike are being taken for granted by a party who just simply does not share their concerns and priorities.”