Patients in Turriff face alarming delays compared to those in urban areas.
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Recent data on ambulance response times in Scotland has unveiled a troubling reality: critically ill patients in the north-east are experiencing wait times that are more than three times longer than those in other regions. This disparity raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of emergency medical services in rural areas, particularly for patients classified as ‘code purple’, who are at a high risk of cardiac arrest.
Alarming wait times for critical patients
In Turriff, patients identified as having a 10% or greater chance of cardiac arrest are waiting an average of over 30 minutes for ambulance assistance, starkly contrasting with the national target of just eight minutes.
This situation has deteriorated significantly since 2019, when the average wait time for critical patients was around 15 minutes. Nearby Banff, located only 12 miles away, has reported a much more favorable response time of 14 minutes for similar emergencies, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in Turriff.
Comparative response times across regions
The data reveals a concerning trend in the north-east, where the longest ambulance wait times are recorded. For instance, Stonehaven averages eight minutes for purple incidents, while Ellon and Peterhead report nine and ten minutes, respectively. In contrast, urban areas such as Aberdeen and Elgin boast response times of approximately five and seven minutes. These statistics underscore the significant challenges faced by rural communities in accessing timely emergency care.
Systemic pressures affecting response times
Ambulance services are currently under immense pressure, particularly at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where ambulances are often seen queuing outside the facility. In response to the escalating crisis, health authorities declared a critical incident in late November, redirecting ambulances to other hospitals such as Raigmore in Inverness and Ninewells in Dundee. A spokesperson for the Scottish Ambulance Service acknowledged that average response times can fluctuate based on the severity of a patient’s condition, but emphasized that the ongoing pressures at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary significantly hinder their ability to respond to emergencies across Aberdeenshire.
Calls for action and accountability
Local representatives, including Harriet Cross, MP for Gordon and Buchan, have expressed deep concern over these figures, labeling them a “shocking reflection of the scale of the crisis” facing the Scottish Ambulance Service. The closure of Turriff’s minor injuries unit and reduced hours at other facilities have further exacerbated the situation, leaving residents vulnerable in critical moments. A spokesperson for the Scottish Government reiterated that patient safety remains a top priority, despite the challenges posed by geographical factors and increasing high-priority calls. They reported that crews responded to 514 of the highest priority calls across Scotland last week, achieving an average response time of 7 minutes and 41 seconds.
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