The rate of patients waiting longer than the four-hour target time in A&E departments in Dumfries and Galloway has reached a record high, according to new figures. In November last year, nearly 1,000 patients had to wait more than four hours to be admitted, transferred, or discharged. The Scottish Government sets a target of 95% of patients to be dealt with within this time frame, but NHS Dumfries and Galloway only achieved a 74.2% success rate in November, the lowest since Public Health Scotland began compiling data in 2007.
Scottish Labour MSP for South Scotland, Colin Smyth, expressed concern over the figures, stating that it is alarming to see a decreasing number of patients being seen within the four-hour target. He emphasized the importance of timely care in A&E and called the situation “appalling.”
Data from Public Health Scotland revealed that out of 3,872 patients who visited A&E in Dumfries and Galloway in November 2024, 2,874 were attended to within four hours, leaving 998 patients waiting longer. Of those, 320 endured waits exceeding eight hours, with 125 patients waiting over 12 hours. Despite this, NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s A&E department still ranks as the third best performing in mainland Scotland, with NHS Tayside and NHS Highland leading the way.
Health Secretary Neil Gray acknowledged the challenges faced by the NHS, noting that the Scottish Government is working intensively with health boards to improve performance. He highlighted the upcoming record funding for the NHS in the government’s draft budget, aimed at enhancing patient care and supporting frontline workers.
Officials have cautioned that Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary is operating at capacity, with an average of 130 A&E visits daily. Patients are urged to consider alternative healthcare options, such as NHS Inform, calling 111, or consulting local pharmacies or GP practices, to alleviate pressure on A&E services. Leaflets have been distributed to patients warning of potential long waits or shared rooms due to high demand.
In summary, the rising number of patients exceeding the four-hour target in Dumfries and Galloway’s A&E departments is a cause for concern, highlighting the strain on healthcare services. Efforts to address the issue are underway, with a focus on increasing funding and improving performance to ensure timely and efficient care for patients in need.