Murdo Fraser MSP has raised the problem of NHS Tayside no longer accepting new referrals for diagnosis of autism and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) to its Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) with the First Minister.
The Scottish Conservative politician asked John Swinney during First Ministers’ Questions at Holyrood what action the Scottish Government is taking to reduce waiting times for children and adolescents for the diagnosis of autism and ADHD.
This followed a recent announcement by NHS Tayside that it would no longer accept referrals for diagnosis of autism and ADHD in children or adolescents unless they have other mental health conditions—a decision that the National Autistic Society has described as ‘beyond comprehension.’
While he welcomed some aspects of Mr Swinney’s response, Mr Fraser feels “concrete action” is needed from the Scottish Government on this matter.
Speaking in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament, Mr Fraser said: “Elsewhere in Scotland, we see similar issues with long waiting times of five years or more arising from a severe shortage of qualified professionals and, therefore, an inability for health services to meet the rising level of demand. What action is the Scottish Government taking to address the concern of many young people and their parents that they will not now be able to access the help that they desperately need?”
And speaking after his FMQ, Mr Fraser added: “I was pleased to hear the First Minister say he was ‘very concerned’ by the manner in which the proposals have been set out by NHS Tayside and welcome him saying they are likely to have caused alarm. It was also good to hear him admit that the NHS Tayside proposals have not been well communicated.
“This move by NHS Tayside has understandably caused a lot of concern and anger among constituents and stakeholders. Many people have contacted me about this shortsighted move by NHS Tayside.
“I feel Mr Swinney needs to take this issue more seriously. Whilst I recognise there is pressure on NHS Tayside due to an increased demand for assessments, I feel this move will cause more anxiety to the children and parents involved. We need concrete action on this from the Scottish Government, not warm words.”
