- June 29, 2025
Scotland’s NHS stands at a crossroads. As someone who has spent countless hours in waiting rooms, spoken to overworked staff, and witnessed the strain on our healthcare system firsthand, I believe it’s time for an honest conversation about where we’re heading.
The statistics are stark: waiting times have increased by 40% over the past five years, while staff retention rates continue to decline. But behind these numbers are real stories – families waiting months for critical procedures, healthcare workers leaving the profession they love, and communities struggling to access basic care.
However, this isn’t just a story of decline. Across Scotland, innovative solutions are emerging. Community health initiatives in the Highlands are showing remarkable results, digital health programs are reducing administrative burden, and collaborative care models are improving patient outcomes.
The question isn’t whether we need change – it’s what kind of change we’re willing to fight for. Do we accept incremental improvements, or do we demand the transformational shift our healthcare system deserves?
As citizens, we have both the right and responsibility to shape this conversation. Our voices, our experiences, and our vision for the future must be at the center of any healthcare reform.