MSP slams mental health waiting times

A FIFE adult has been forced to wait nearly two years to begin mental health treatment.

The 651-day wait is stark proof that a change in how the issue is tackled is required, according to North East Fife MSP Willie Rennie.

The Scottish Liberal Democrat leader was stunned by the response given by NHS Fife following a freedom of information request after questioning the health board about the longest wait endured by any adult who started treatment for psychological therapy in the region after a referral.

NHS Fife said it could not provide figures for the last three years despite recording them, citing the lengthy search, preparation and retrieval work involved. But Mr Rennie is concerned Fife’s current figure is the worst in Scotland – ahead of Grampian’s figure of 603 days.

“These findings are shocking,” he said. “There’s no way a serious physical health condition will be left untreated for over a year like this Fife patient waiting 651 days. Sadly, this picture from NHS Fife is echoed across Scotland and only goes to demonstrate that mental health is still seen as less important when compared to more visible conditions.”

In response to his concerns, Julie Paterson, divisional manager with Fife health and social care partnership, said it was taking action to address the situation.