Rise in patient deaths whilst on waiting lists in Scotland

14 March 2025
John Sitting In The Stands
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A Sunday Times investigation has revealed the number of patients in Scotland who have passed away whilst on waiting lists for agreed treatment, such as surgery, has risen more than 200 percent since 2014.

Data obtained under freedom of information laws revealed deaths while waiting for planned treatments had risen from 690 in 2013-14 to 2,151 in 2023-2024.

John Small, 87, from Stranraer, Scotland

John has severe osteoarthritis and was put on the list for a total knee replacement in January 2024. John’s son, Gary, now worries his father is at risk of joining this statistic. 

“The big worry for me is at 87, he is 11 years above average life expectancy for a Scottish man,” Mr Small said. “He has probably got to that age because he has kept himself very fit, but he is not able to do that anymore (because of his knee pain). The chance is he is going to deteriorate; I am seeing it already. He can hardly walk. He is shuffling and limping and he’s really struggling on the stairs.”

Gary has chased his local NHS service on his father’s behalf to be told its likely John will have to wait at least another four months for surgery, making his total time on the waiting list over 22 months. It was suggested that John is in a position to continue waiting because he isn’t falling frequently or taking large amounts of pain killers, said Gary, however, he can’t help but worry about the potential consequences a fall may have for his Dad.

John, who is a retired semi-pro footballer and former marathon runner, has felt down because the condition has made it more difficult to stay active and do simple things like seeing his great-grandchildren. 

“He has always embraced self-management and exercise routines as part of living with his condition as well as helping form and take part in a local walking football club but unfortunately due to the long wait for surgery John can no longer take part."

Gary Small

Lauren Bennie, Head of Scotland for Versus Arthritis

Lauren Bennie, Head of Scotland for Versus Arthritis, said: "The figures are really stark and startling, and it is devastating to hear from families who fear their loved ones will become one of these statistics."

“People who live with arthritis can find themselves waiting years for a hip or knee replacement operation which will relieve agonising pain and disability and dramatically improve their quality of life.

“It is devastating to think instead of being able to make the most of their last years, patients have to reign in their activities because there are such long delays for treatment. Not being physically active can also affect their overall health and wellbeing as well."

"We know that the average age for hip and knee replacement surgery is 67 and National Records of Scotland data shows the average age of death in Scotland's poorest neighbourhoods is between 68 and 70. The consequences of long delays on those who could never afford to pay for private treatment must not be forgotten."

Lauren Bennie, Head of Scotland for Versus Arthritis

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