29.06.18
Health board misses shocking 16 of its 19 targets
NHS Grampian has not met 16 of its 19 targets for the last year, according to a new report from independent watchdog Audit Scotland.
Of the 19 Local Delivery Plan (LDP) standards, 16 were given a red status, with just two in green and one in progress.
The report showed that, as of March, just 66% of patients met the 18-week target for treatment from referral – well below the 90% target. The same target was given for children with mental health issues to be seen within the same timescale, but only 39% hit this target.
Despite this, the report praised the “effective” financial arrangements of the board and said that a number of measures are being taken to improve matters. This includes increased recruitment funding and greater collaboration with Integrated Joint Boards.
A spokesperson for NHS Grampian commented: “This unqualified audit report demonstrates NHS Grampian is a good steward of public money with effective arrangements in place to manage our finances. Our priority is to deliver the very best quality service we can within the resources we have available.
“The challenges we face around meeting some performance targets is a matter of public record. We are committed to meeting these targets but also to maintaining the quality of care we provide to the people of Grampian.”
Earlier this month, the board’s CEO Malcolm Wright announced he would be standing down in August after four years in the position, saying it had been a “privilege and a pleasure” to serve as NHS Grampian’s boss.
Top image: Alashi Clip Art via iStock Images
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