Audit Scotland Warns Scottish NHS Faces Unsustainable Future Without Urgent Reform

The watchdog highlights missed targets, record delays, and insufficient leadership as key challenges threatening the health system's viability.

Audit Scotland's report emphasizes that the NHS in Scotland urgently requires fundamental changes to meet growing demand and ensure long-term sustainability.
Despite increased spending, including a £19.1 billion allocation for 2023/24, the NHS is treating fewer patients than before the pandemic, with record levels of delayed discharges and long waiting lists.
The watchdog criticizes the Scottish Government for lacking a clear and actionable plan for reform, noting that recent strategies largely repeat previously failed initiatives.
Significant portions of increased funding have been directed toward staff pay rises, leaving limited resources for systemic improvements or service expansion.
Opposition parties and health organizations, including the BMA and RCN, have called for stronger leadership and detailed plans to address workforce shortages, operational inefficiencies, and unmet targets.