The Scottish Government published new figures today that show cancer waiting times targets in Scotland continue to be met.
Between October and December last year, 96.9 per cent of patients suspected to have cancer started treatment within the target time of 62 days after urgent referral.
Within the same period, 98.2 per cent of patients started treatment within the target of 31 days once the decision to treat had been made.
Targets are being met by NHS according to Nicola Sturgeon
The target set by the Scottish Government for both the 31 day and 62 day measures is 95 per cent.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing Nicola Sturgeon said:
“Delivery of the cancer waiting times was made ahead of schedule thanks to a fantastic effort by NHS Scotland and I am pleased to see that these targets continue to be met.
“We know how important it is for both patients and their families to have as short a wait as possible for both diagnostic tests and treatment and that is why these measures are so important.
“Alongside this our £30 million Detect Cancer Early programme aims to diagnose cancers earlier and treat patients when less aggressive treatment is required. Together all of this will improve survival and reap benefits for patients, their families and all of Scotland.”
