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THE First Minister has sought answers from Royal Mail bosses over lengthy post delays which have seen people in Inverclyde miss NHS appointments.
The issue was recently raised at the Scottish Parliament by Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan during First Minister’s Questions.
Mr McMillan outlined the problems faced by constituents after he was contacted by almost 100 people within 48 hours.
Residents, including cancer patients and others awaiting surgery, told the MSP they had not received post for several weeks.
Mr McMillan’s office has now been contacted by 161 constituents – excluding those who have raised concerns on social media.
John Swinney has now committed to liaising with the Royal Mail regarding Mr McMillan’s concerns.
Health secretary Neil Gray has also provided the local MSP with a response following the First Minister’s visit to Glasgow sorting office on December 22.
His letter highlighted waiting times guidance, whereby patients must be given at least 10 calendar days’ notice for an appointment offer.
It also noted that some health boards use third-party providers before letters reach Royal Mail, which can introduce additional delays.
Mr Gray confirmed that he has asked the chief operating officer to raise this matter through the waiting times programme board to ensure that appointment letters include the use of a Royal Mail NHS specific barcode, which allows delivery to be prioritised.
John Swinney (Image: Jane Barlow)
Mr McMillan said: “During my visit to the Royal Mail’s Greenock Delivery Office, I was told that health boards can use a specific barcode system which helps postal staff easily identify NHS letters and prioritise delivery.
“Unfortunately, I was informed that NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have not opted to utilise this system – so I have raised this matter with the health board as it would help postal workers ensure these letters are treated accordingly, particularly when the demands upon the service are so high in the run-up to Christmas.
“I therefore welcome the confirmation from the health secretary that this matter will also be addressed by the waiting times programme board so that, hopefully, all health boards across Scotland sign up to this system.”
Stuart McMillan (Image: Newsquest)
Mr McMillan is encouraging any constituents to contact his office if they have been penalised – either through a charge or in being removed from waiting lists – for missing health appointments due to postal issues.
He added: “I want to ensure no one’s healthcare is affected by these issues.
“In the New Year, I’ll also be seeking a meeting with Royal Mail bosses to discuss their preparations for next Christmas.
“Clearly, if demand for parcel deliveries increased by 26 per cent this year, the service must consider just how much additional capacity it’ll need to build into their business for 2026.”
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