Shortage of staff ‘risk’ to cancer survival

A lack of funding, forward thinking and shortages of staff has seen cancer treatment stall in Scotland, according to a parliamentary report.

The Scottish Parliament’s Cross-Party Group on Cancer, which will publish its report today, found that 18% of cancer patients in June were not seen within the six-week target.

The findings of the report have been described as “deeply concerning” by Cancer Research UK, and group convener Anas Sarwar said it must act as an “urgent wake-up call” for the Scottish Government.

He said: “Cancer survival is being put at risk because of a chronic

“The findings of this inquiry are deeply concerning”

staffing shortage in our NHS.

“This has devastating consequences for patients with cancer and their families and friends.

“With a growing and ageing population, the time for action is now.

“We need a longterm workforce plan backed up by sufficient investment and resources to save lives in Scotland.”

Cancer Research UK chief executive Michelle Mitchell said: “The findings of this inquiry are deeply concerning.

“Diagnosing cancer early can make all the difference, but there are major shortages in the staff trained to carry out the tests that diagnose cancer.”

Responding to the report, Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “Cancer is an absolute priority for the Scottish Government and our £100 million cancer strategy is focused on improving survival rates and ensuring we have the right workforce.”