The SNP has welcomed statistics that show 96.9% of Scottish patients suspected to have cancer started treatment within the target time of 62 days. In three NHS areas, Orkney, the Western Isles and Dumfries and Galloway, every single patient referred for cancer treatment began their treatment within the target time.
Bob Doris, vice convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Health and Sport committee, hailed the statistics which showed that the NHS in Scotland is continuing to meet the target of 95%.
Mr Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow, said:
“The hard work and effort of our NHS staff in delivering these fantastic statistics should be praised.
“It is testament to this hard work that some health boards have reached a 100% target, with many others not far behind.
“We know how important it is to cut waiting times to see a cancer specialist, so I’m delighted we passed our target of 95% ahead of schedule last year.
“The SNP is working hard to improve cancer survival which is why we launched our £30 million Detect Cancer Early programme.
“This fund aims to diagnose cancers earlier and treat patients when less aggressive treatment is required.
“Thousands of Scots are affected by cancer and that is why the SNP Government has taken steps to ensure that patients are seen by doctors and specialists as quickly as possible.”