What discussions has the Cabinet Secretary had with health boards regarding the waiting times for ultrasound referrals?
I have been very clear with all health boards about my expectations that all diagnostic waits over the eight-week target, which includes non-obstetric ultrasound, should be cleared as soon as possible.
While there has been a 30% reduction in the numbers waiting more than eight weeks for non-obstetric ultrasound between September 2023 and May 2024, significant improvement is still required.
Training requirements is an area of recent focus by the National Diagnostic Board. It is recognised across the UK that staff availability for this modality has a significant impact on achieving the required access targets. New ways of working and increasing the range of staff trained are being proposed to build a more sustainable workforce going forward.