Long A&E waiting times lead to more than 800 excess deaths, says medical body
‘National tragedy’ as hundreds die amid long A&E wait times
- More than 800 deaths in Scotland are believed to be linked to prolonged waits in Accident & Emergency departments, according to the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM).
- The RCEM estimates 818 excess deaths occurred due to patients waiting 12 hours or longer, based on a standard mortality ratio.
- Last year, 76,510 people waited over 12 hours in Scottish emergency departments, an increase of 20,432 from the previous year.
- Dr Fiona Hunter of RCEM Scotland described the figures as a 'national tragedy' and urged political parties to adopt the RCEM's manifesto recommendations for improving emergency care.
- While opposition parties criticised the Scottish government's handling of the crisis, Health Secretary Neil Gray acknowledged the issue but highlighted recent improvements and increased investment.