Patients will have a legally guaranteed waiting time for an operation

Patients will be legally guaranteed hospital treatment within 12 weeks under new legislation which has been unveiled by the Scottish government.

An independent advice service will also be created for anyone unhappy with the care provided by the NHS.

The Patient Rights (Scotland) Bill will introduce a legal right to complain about treatment.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said the bill aimed to improve patients’ experience of using health services.

The maximum waiting time of 12 weeks will begin when a patient is put on a waiting list and will apply to both day case and in-patient procedures.

It is absolutely right that patients know what they can expect from their health service Nicola Sturgeon Health Secretary

If a hospital fails to comply, it will have to ensure treatment is given at the “next available opportunity” and provide an explanation to the patient for the delay.

Health boards will have a duty to direct patients who are unsatisfied with their treatment to the new Patient Advice and Support Service.

Follow the link to read more about improving patient care