Scottish Hospitals Rely on Outdated Diagnostic Equipment

Scottish patients are increasingly reliant on outdated diagnostic equipment, with significant portions of X-Ray, MRI, and CT scanners exceeding the recommended replacement age of 10 years. The Society of Radiographers has highlighted that nearly one-third of the 123 diagnostic machines reported in Scotland are over a decade old, raising concerns about reliability and patient safety. NHS Grampian and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have been particularly criticized for having numerous machines, including an X-ray unit that is 27 years old. Scottish Labour has called out the Scottish National Party (SNP) government for their handling of NHS resources, claiming that patients may feel as if they are in a time warp due to the age of the equipment. In response, the Scottish government has announced a record health budget aimed at improving services, but critics argue that urgent investments in technology are needed to enhance patient care. The debate continues as health boards struggle with aging infrastructure amidst increasing patient demands.