MSP seeks assurances over number of cancelled operations

NHS Fife is working to reschedule operations postponed in December during a period of unprecedented demand.

A total of 129 scheduled procedures, 6.23% of the total number, were called off due to capacity or non-clinical reasons including lack of theatre time, an emergency patient taking priority or lack of equipment.

NHS Fife chief executive Paul Hawkins described the figure as disappointing but pointed to an unpredicted demand.

He was responding to Labour MSP Alex Rowley, who expressed concern patients had suffered grief and worry when operations were cancelled.

The Mid Scotland and Fife MSP asked what was being done to reduce the likelihood of future cancellations.

The chief executive said: “It is disappointing that 6.23% of planned elective procedures were cancelled due to capacity or non-clinical reasons. The main reason for the high number of cancellations was due to bed capacity...

“NHS Fife experienced an unpredicted demand for services in December and January, which was in the main due to a significant increase in patients with respiratory illness.

“Elective orthopaedic surgery was maintained over the Christmas/new year period, however did suffer some cancellations due to the significant increase in orthopaedic trauma due to bad weather.

“Every effort is being made to reschedule postponed procedures at the earliest possible opportunity.”

Mr Rowley is now seeking a meeting with Mr Hawkins to ensure there are enough beds in the system and health and social care is properly funded.