Waiting times

This site shows information on waiting times for planned (elective) care. This site does not show information for emergency (unscheduled) care.

The statistics shown here relate only to any treatment as an inpatient or day case covered by the Treatment Time Guarantee (TTG). A small number of specialist treatments are not covered by the TTG.

How waiting times are calculated

Once treatment is agreed, after diagnosis and tests, a patient will be added to the waiting list. Waiting times are calculated from that moment to the start of treatment, taking into account any time you're unavailable. If your care is urgent, you may be seen sooner.

What can impact waiting times?

Long waits have grown as a result of the pandemic and the continued pressures this brings. The Scottish Government has announced a new set of ambitious targets to make sure there is a focus on treating people that are waiting too long for treatment.

Waiting times can vary across local health boards. Different specialties may also experience a range of waiting times.

How long you wait will also depend on how urgent your need for treatment is (clinical urgency). Waiting times for less urgent care may be longer due to rising patient demand.