Cancer waiting times worst on record for 5th quarter in a row

Scottish Affairs spokesperson Christine Jardine MP has today urged Michael Matheson to “do better than his predecessor” and make tackling cancer waiting times one of his top priorities, as figures published today show the worst cancer waiting times performance against the 62-day referral to treatment standard since records began in 2012.

Figures published today revealed that only 71% of patients were seen within the 62 day standard, a decrease from 75% in the last quarter. The 62 day standard was also not met by any NHS Health Board.

Christine Jardine MP said:

"This SNP/Green Government have let down everyone in Scotland who has ever had to hear a cancer diagnosis or lost someone they love. Humza Yousaf owes us all an apology and has serious questions to answer about how he has allowed this to happen.

“It should be one of Michael Matheson’s top priorities to do better than his predecessor and tackle these waiting times urgently.

“NHS patients and staff alike are being continually failed by this government. Early intervention in cancer cases is crucial to chances of survival and it is unacceptable that this Government is allowing people in need to wait in limbo, while their loved ones watch on anxiously, powerless to do anything.

“We need action on this and we need it now. The people of Scotland cannot afford otherwise.”