BMA wary of waiting time plans

Mar 18 2010

Doctors' leaders said they were "not convinced" by SNP plans to enshrine guaranteed waiting times in law.

The British Medical Association (BMA) raised its concerns over legislation aimed at setting a 12-week limit for treatment. The plans could create a "litigious" culture and undermine the nature of the NHS, the body warned.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said the Patients' Rights Bill will "send out a strong signal" that patients are at the heart of the NHS. It also seeks to establish a patient advice and support service and bring in a legal right to complain.