I can give our NHS a shot in the arm
closer those proposals because the red line is paying for care.”
The advent of artificial intelligence across the industry has sparked debate over whether its use is a force for good or a dangerous folly which will destroy millions of jobs.
But Gray believes, if used correctly, the technology could hold the key to faster and more efficient cancer diagnosis.
He added: “Absolutely there are good examples of where AI has been trialled elsewhere in the UK, where it’s freeing up clinical time because you can see diagnosis happening quicker and easier.
“There’s an NHS Trust in Leicester which has been using AI in a screening process which can detect lung cancer and it’s these areas where I think we can utilise academic research and the private sector in a better way.”
A report last week warned Scotland faced a cancer “timebomb” of cases due to delayed treatment and detection.
Gray said: “The report demonstrated challenges across the UK but of course we do need to improve. What I’m really driven by at the moment is looking at cancer pathways.
“We’ve got a 31-day target, which we have been very close to meeting, and I want to see us meet that target. But we have other targets – a 62-day target – which is more challenging.
“It’s unacceptable, and I’ve said to colleagues we need to focus on ensuring we’re working to meet those targets.”
A major challenge for Gray will be dealing with the public inquiry and police probe centred on NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and QEUH.
Scotland’s largest health board has been named as a suspect in a corporate homicide investigation after four patients died at the campus. And the ongoing inquiry is also scrutinising the construction of the QEUH where Milly Main, 10, died after contracting an infection in a children’s cancer ward.
A review found an infection which contributed to her death was probably caused by the hospital environment. Scott ish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has called for resignations and been critical of the health board.
Gray said: “I was at the Queen Elizabeth, it was the first visit I made as health secretary. I saw incredible staff doing phenomenal work to provide a level of service that meets the needs of patients. A public inquiry is in place. it is taking evidence and I don’t want to comment on or interfere in the process.”
A former 400m runner at national level, Gray, MSP for Airdrie and Shotts since 2021, told how the NHS made sure he could walk again unaided after a knee injury ended his career at 21.
He said: “I received incredible care and the skill of the surgeon who operated on my knee meant I didn’t need a stick to walk.
“That’s why the work I’m doing is looking at the reform possible in order to put the NHS on a sustainable footing. That’s absolutely critical.”
It’s my responsibility to improve the situation NEIL GRAY ON CUTTING HOSPITAL WAITING TIMES