Delays in treatment for those living with chronic pain in Scotland
HUNDREDS of patients suffering chronic pain are waiting months to see specialists in Scotland.
Figures, published for the first time, show almost one in five people referred to pain clinics faced waits of 18 weeks or more.
In the last three months of 2015 82.5% of patients were seen at clinics within 18 weeks, but more than 500 patients had to queue longer for their first appointment.
The statisticians noted 13% of patients offered pain clinic consultations did not turn up and offered no explanation for missing their slot.
Psychological support for those living with chronic pain appeared to have shorter waiting times with 95% of those treated in the last quarter of 2015 seen within 18 weeks.
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