Question reference: S6W-20404
- Asked by: Alasdair Allan, MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 3 August 2023
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Current status: Answered by Michael Matheson on 22 August 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update regarding the reported shortage of specialist oncologists within NHS Highland.
Answer
NHS Highland’s oncology service is currently provided by a mix of substantive staff, locum consultants and some support from consultants based in other boards. This arrangement is ensuring all patients are receiving the treatment they need. Efforts to recruit additional substantive staff are ongoing, however this is difficult because of the current UK national shortage of doctors who are qualified oncologists.