Moray MP Douglas Ross has raised concerns about contingency plans for equipment failures at Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin after patients faced lengthy delays for CT scans.
Constituents reported that one patient rushed to hospital on Friday had to wait until the following Monday for the required scan.
Another patient is reported to have waited for nine hours for an ambulance to become available to convey her to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary instead.
Mr Ross said that he was told there was a mechanical failure with the CT scanner at Dr Gray’s.
He has now raised the matter with the chief executive of NHS Grampian and questioned what kind of back-up plans are in place to cover breakdowns.
Scottish Conservative MP for Moray Douglas Ross said:
“I have been approached by constituents with concerns about the fact that relatives have faced lengthy waits for CT scans in recent days.
“In one case, the patient had to wait nine hours for an ambulance to take her to ARI – more than an hour’s drive away from Elgin.
“I’m looking for better contingency plans to be in place in the event of mechanical breakdown, so local people do not have to worry about this going forward.
“Any delays to undergoing scans will simply add to the stress and concern of being in the hospital or having a relative in the hospital.
“I think NHS Grampian should explain exactly what procedures and back-up plans are in place for situations like this at Dr Gray’s.”
