Moray SNP News

RICHARD LOCHHEAD SEEKS UPDATE ON ORTHOPAEDIC WAITING TIMES IN MORAY

Moray’s MSP Richard Lochhead has written to NHS Grampian seeking an urgent update on steps it is taking to reduce orthopaedic waiting times for patients in Moray.

Mr Lochhead has been in regular contact with NHS Grampian on this issue in recent months due to the backlog caused by the pandemic.

A number of constituents have raised concerns with the MSP about lengthy waiting times for surgery.

Mr Lochhead has also expressed concern that the recent closure of operating theatres at Dr Gray’s Hospital is having an impact on NHS Grampian’s ability to operate on patients as quickly as possible.

Commenting Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“I’ve been contacted by a number of constituents who are facing long waits for surgery and understandably, this is having a big impact on their quality of life.

“Over the last twelve months or so, I’ve been in regular contact with NHS Grampian about the very long waiting times for orthopaedics locally and I have now sought a further urgent update on the steps that are being taken to tackle this backlog.

“I absolutely recognise the pressure on healthcare teams at the moment and we all know the NHS is still recovering from the pandemic, however, many of my constituents are living with a great deal of pain and need assurances that waiting times are coming down.

“Clearly the situation with theatre closures at Dr Gray’s Hospital won’t be helping and it is vital that operating spaces in Moray are back up to full capacity as soon as possible.”