Patient Access Policy

It is the responsibility of all health boards across Scotland to have a Patient Access Policy which aligns to the National Access Policy.

The policy outlines what the responsibilities are of the health board and of the patient.  Ensuring patients are treated fairly and consistently across NHS Orkney and are communicated with effectively at every stage of their care journey.

This Patient Access Policy sets out the details of the current waiting times standards which are:

• 18 weeks referral to treatment for 90% of patients
• 12 weeks for new outpatient appointments for 95% of patients
• 6 weeks for the eight key diagnostic tests and investigations
• The 12 weeks Treatment Time Guarantee standard means all eligible patients who are to be admitted to hospital will receive their agreed treatment within 12 weeks of agreeing the treatment with the relevant clinician
• 4 weeks referral to first appointment for 90% of patients accessing Musculoskeletal services
• 62 days from referral to treatment for urgent suspected cancer patients
• 31 days from decision to treat to treatment for urgent suspected cancer cases

Dr Anna Lamont, Medical Director at NHS Orkney said: “As an island board, we know delays can feel more uncertain when specialist care often involves travel away from Orkney. This policy is part of our responsibility to be clear with patients, reduce unnecessary delay, and support equity in how we deliver care. It’s about fairness, clarity, and staying in touch, so people know what’s happening, and why.”

You can read the full policy here, NHSO Patient Access Policy.