Over 800 Deaths Linked to Long A&E Waits in Scotland Amid Rising 12-Hour Delays

A report by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) highlights a severe crisis in Scotland's emergency departments, linking over 800 deaths last year to waits of 12 hours or more in accident and emergency (A&E) departments. The number of patients enduring such extreme waits rose to 76,510, a 26% increase from the previous year, with the majority waiting for admission to a ward. Dr. Fiona Hunter, RCEM vice-president, described the situation as a "national tragedy," emphasizing the human cost of patients waiting on trolleys in corridors or any available space due to bed shortages. The RCEM attributes these delays to systemic issues including workforce shortages, with over 1,000 consultant vacancies, and calls for urgent government action to improve patient flow and reduce wait times. Despite the Scottish government's recognition of the problem and investment pledges, opposition parties criticize the current administration's handling of the NHS crisis. The RCEM has issued a manifesto urging all political parties to adopt measures aimed at ending A&E overcrowding and ensuring adequate staffing to prevent further loss of life.