NHS Grampian says declining an appointment offer may see their waiting time 'clock' reset to zero.
Patients in the north east awaiting treatment may be offered appointments anywhere in Scotland in a bid to tackle growing waiting lists.Reasonable expenses would be met by the health board.
Paul Bachoo, medical director for NHS Grampian's acute sector, said: "Offering appointments outwith the region is not a new thing, particularly where very specialist care is required. "Our preference is always to offer care as close to home as we can, but we cannot ignore the number of people waiting for treatment."He added: "We are writing to everyone currently on a waiting list to let them know it is likely they will be offered an appointment outwith Grampian.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
GMB union rejects improved NHS pay deal in ScotlandThe union represents the majority of ambulance staff working for the NHS in Scotland.
Read more »
The Scottish hospice struggling with the true cost of livingInflation has decimated Strathcarron Hospice's NHS funding, leaving it reliant on charity events.
Read more »
Nadia Shah: Cambridgeshire children's services criticised in mental health caseNadia Shah's case reveals an 'absence' of council and NHS services working together, says a review.
Read more »
Wes Streeting: I won't pretend NHS is envy of worldThe shadow health secretary says the NHS needs reform as he attacks left-wing critics of his ideas.
Read more »
Largest nursing strike in NHS history set to startRoutine surgery is likely to be disrupted, but life-preserving and urgent care will still be provided.
Read more »
UK Nurses Kick Off Largest-Ever Strike by NHS Workers After Negotiations FailTens of thousands of nurses across the U.K. are taking part in the largest-ever strike by National Health Service workers, saying they were forced to act after the government refused to negotiate over pay amid painfully high inflation.
Read more »