Scanlon urges Scottish Government to bring truly effective Telehealth provision to Scotland

An Audit Scotland report published today identified the expansion of Telehealth as having the potential to deliver certain services more efficiently and efficiently. The report encourages the further development of such schemes across Scotland.

Scottish Conservative Health Spokesman, Mary Scanlon MSP said:

"Scottish Conservatives continue to support the benefits of Telehealth and we welcome Audit Scotland's review. Given the current approach to redesigning NHS services, there is an excellent opportunity to embrace Telehealth. It has the potential to reduce travel for patients, aid with quicker diagnosis and provide home monitoring for those with long-term conditions, helping them to understand and manage their condition and feel more independent.

"Telehealth utilises modern technology to improve efficiency in healthcare, reach out to rural communities and embrace modern changes in Scottish society. It is, however, important that future investment is well targeted in training and technology to best serve patients and effectively integrate Telehealth into the NHS as a whole.

"The NHS 24 roll-out and progress of Telehealth across Scotland has been disappointing despite the proven benefits to patients. Developments in these areas have previously been slow and lacking in national co-ordination. As such, we urge the Scottish Government to work closely with NHS Boards and other organisations in seizing the opportunity to bring truly effective Telehealth provision to Scotland."

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