NHS Highland plan to reduce waiting times for child NDAs is encouraging, says Highland MSP
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NHS Highland plans to address the long waiting times for child neurodevelopmental assessments (NDA) have been welcomed by MSP for Highlands and Islands, Edward Mountain.
The health board has confirmed that 562 children are currently on the waiting list for NDAs, which are crucial for identifying Autism, ADHD and a range of other diagnoses.
Mr Mountain held a meeting with NHS Highland on the issue and the health board have confirmed that plans are being put in place to substantially reduce the waiting list by the end of 2022.
A series of Freedom of Information requests submitted by Edward Mountain MSP recently highlighted that well over 10,000 are waiting for NDAs across Scotland.
He said: “I was pleased to meet with NHS Highland in order to raise my deep concerns about the long waiting times children are experiencing for neurodevelopmental assessments.
“Some children have been waiting over two years for an assessment and targeted actions are required urgently to improve this situation.
“I am therefore encouraged that NHS Highland are putting together a plan that should see the waiting list backlog substantially reduced by the end of this year.
“2022 must be the year of action to help these children and ensure they receive the support they need.
“I look forward to having another meeting with NHS Highland at the end of June to see what progress has been made and if they are on track to reduce the waiting list.”
