MSP's 'relief' as NHS Lanarkshire exits code black status

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A Lanarkshire MSP says it is “a relief” that the area’s health services have moved out of their highest risk status – but says staff and patients “should never have been left languishing in a code black emergency all this time”.

Monica Lennon was responding to the announcement from NHS Lanarkshire that it has moved down to the red risk level for the first time since July following its firebreak operation aiming to improve patient flow and reduce occupancy levels in its acute hospitals.

Health board chief executive Professor Jann Gardner called it a “huge milestone”, with Lanarkshire having been at the most elevated “critical occupancy” code black status for all but two months since October 2021.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android Central Scotland representative Ms Lennon said: “It is a relief that we are starting to see some progress, and this a testament to the dedicated healthcare workforce we have in Lanarkshire.“My thoughts are with people and families who have experienced preventable loss and life-changing events in the 400+ days our health board was trying to function at an unsafe and unsustainable level of risk.“Too many people are going without the appointments, treatment, procedures and social care that they need, so faster progress is needed and there is no room for complacency.”She added: