Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray has denied that the NHS is in crisis, claiming that 'most people get an incredibly good service' despite the current challenges, including over 800,000 people on waiting lists and high A&E wait times. He acknowledged that many patients are experiencing long waits and that staff are feeling burnt-out, but he insisted that these issues are not unique to Scotland and emphasized the need for a balanced view of the health service. Critics, including opposition parties, have condemned his remarks, arguing that the evidence of a crisis is overwhelming, with waiting times and patient dissatisfaction reaching alarming levels. Reports indicate that a significant proportion of patients are facing extended waits, with the latest A&E statistics showing that only 69.6% are seen within the four-hour target. Gray's assertions have sparked accusations of denial regarding the operational state of the NHS. As the winter season approaches, concerns grow over the potential impact on healthcare services.