Concerns over long A&E waits

Concerns have been raised about multi-day waits at A&E departments.

Data shows one patient at Forth Valley Royal Hospital waited more than three days for treatment.

The most recent data shows one in seven have waited more than twelve hours to be admitted, discharged or treated.

The Scottish Lib Dems say Scottish Government policies are "heaving unbearable pressure" on Scotland's NHS.

NHS Forth Valley said:

"The Emergency Department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, like many hospitals across Scotland, can experience very busy periods with many seriously ill patients requiring admission for treatment.

All patients undergo a clinical assessment when they attend ED and those with more serious illnesses and injuries who require urgent care are prioritised. Other patients may undergo tests and start treatment in ED while they wait to be admitted to a hospital ward.

Local staff and partners are doing everything possible to reduce delays and a range of work is being taken forward to help free up capacity. This includes the expansion of our Hospital at Home team and the development of a new Frailty Unit to support older people with more complex health and care needs.

We would like to apologise to anyone who has experienced a longer wait and would encourage them to get in touch with our Patient Relations team to share their feedback and help identify any areas to improve the experience of local patients."