MSP questions cancelled operation figures

Figures released today by IDS Scotland have revealed the number of planned operations cancelled in Orkney in July.

The figures reveal the number of operations cancelled “due to capacity or other non-clinical reasons.”

In July, 4.8 per cent of operations (8 out of 168) in Orkney were cancelled due to non-clinical reasons, an increase from 4.2 per cent in June. Across Scotland only 1.4 per cent of operations were cancelled for similar reasons.

Commenting on the figures, Orkney MSP Liam McArthur said: “Of course, given the relatively small numbers involved, any statistics relating to Orkney need to be treated with caution.  Moreover, operations can be cancelled for clinical reasons or at the request of patients themselves.

“Nevertheless, the fact that we have seen an increase in the number of patients in Orkney who had their operations cancelled for non-clinical reasons is disappointing, not least for the patients affected.

“Staff too will feel hugely frustrated. During a visit to the Balfour Hospital last month, I saw once again the hard work and dedication put in by local staff, who deserve support and adequate resources.

“NHS Orkney will rightly need to examine why operations are being cancelled for non-clinical or capacity reasons and whether this relates to the problem of underfunding by Scottish Government.”