NHS Grampian to offer appointments with other health boards in attempt to tackle waiting lists in the region
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PEOPLE in the north-east who are waiting for elective surgeries may soon be asked to travel to other areas in Scotland under new plans from NHS Grampian.
With waiting lists for treatment in north-east Scotland continuing to grow, NHS Grampian have outlined plans for patients to be treated by other health boards in hopes of cutting patient waiting times.
Following discussions with Scottish Government and other health boards the number of appointments offered to patients outwith the region is expected to increase, with the definition of a "reasonable" offer of treatment changing to include an appointment anywhere in Scotland.
Paul Bachoo, Medical Director for NHS Grampian’s Acute Sector, said: “Offering appointments outwith the region is not a new thing, particularly where very specialist care is required.
“To reduce the number of people waiting – and to ensure they are seen in a timely manner – out of area appointments will increase as we work closely with colleagues across Scotland.
"Our preference is always to offer care as close to home as we can, but we cannot ignore the number of people waiting for treatment.
“Their procedures may be categorised as ‘routine’ or ‘elective’ but for these individuals – and their families and friends – their need for care is far from routine and ensuring prompt treatment is the most important thing.”
Under the new plans, any operations that have been planned in advance and are therefore not categorised as emergency could be offered outwith the north-east.
As with all out of area treatment, reasonable travel and accommodation expenses will be met by NHS Grampian.
Mr Bachoo added: “We are writing to everyone currently on a waiting list to let them know it is likely they will be offered an appointment outwith Grampian.
“While they are not obliged to take up any offer made, declining an appointment may see their waiting time ‘clock’ reset to zero.
“We will continue to prioritise treatment based on severity of condition and we will continue to offer local appointments.”
Letters will be sent to patients who will possibly be affected by the changes from today (Friday, December 16).
