Swinney: No 'shortcut' to NHS wait time reduction

Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister of Scotland, has acknowledged that some patients are facing unacceptably long wait times for treatment within the National Health Service (NHS) in Scotland. This issue is set to be a focus at the upcoming Scottish National Party (SNP) conference. Sturgeon stated that there are no "shortcuts" to reducing these wait times, and that the government is working to address the problem. She emphasized the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated the existing pressures on the NHS. The first minister pledged to continue investing in the NHS and exploring ways to improve efficiency and access to care. However, she also cautioned that significant progress would take time, as the issues are complex and deeply rooted. The article highlights the ongoing challenges facing the Scottish healthcare system and the government's efforts to find solutions that can provide timely and accessible care for patients in need.