28 September 2021

Being diagnosed with cancer can be upsetting and difficult for patients and their families to cope with. It is important to us here at NHS Borders that lengthy waits for diagnosis or treatment do not add to the anxiety that patients can feel during this uncertain time.

This month figures published for April - June 2021 show that Borderers with cancer, or suspected of having cancer, who receive treatment locally are experiencing some of the timeliest care in the country. 

Almost 92% of eligible patients who are given an urgent suspicion of cancer referral have received their first cancer treatment within the Scottish Government’s 62-day target, well above the Scottish average.

100% of Borders patients receive their first treatment within the Scottish Government target of 31-days (from the date of the decision to treatment).

Dr Lynn McCallum, Medical Director at NHS Borders said: “We always focus on delivering high quality, safe care and seeing our patients as quickly as we can. I am proud that our cancer services have continued to perform well during the pandemic, thanks to the incredible hard work and dedication of our staff.

“To have the best chance of beating cancer, timely diagnosis and treatment is crucial. So if you are concerned or worried, please seek professional advice by contacting your GP.”