A&E IN GRIP OF DEADLY CRISIS

Appeal for more investment to address the ‘disgraceful delays’ in our hospitals

- PAUL HUTCHEON

SOME 7300 patients waited more than a day in an A&E last year before being treated.

Scottish Labour's Deputy Leader and Health spokeswoman Dame Jackie Baillie, who uncovered the scandal, demanded action from new Health Secretary Neil Gray.

She said: "Scotland's A&E departments are in the grip of a deadly crisis, with lives being put on the line day in and day out.

"That some people have waited days, even a working week, to be seen is dangerous and disgraceful.

"Hard-pressed A&E staff are working tirelessly to look after patients but SNP mismanagement has created a perfect storm in our hospitals.