FIGURES released by Information Services Division Scotland have revealed that NHS Fife are meeting national waiting time targets for cancer patients.

A Scottish Government action plan on better cancer care stated that 95 per cent of patients should wait no longer than 31 days from a decision to treat to starting treatment, and 62 days from being given a referral to treatment.

Figures from October to December last year show that 95.4 per cent of Fifers started treatment for the disease within 62 days of urgent referral with a suspicion of cancer, which compares to a national figure of 94.6 per cent.

A total of 98.4 per cent of cancer sufferers across the Kingdom began treatment 31 days after a decision was taken to begin treatment and compares against a national figure of 97.9 per cent.

Dr Gordon Birnie, medical director with NHS Fife, said, “It is hugely important that patients and their families have as short a wait as possible to access diagnostic tests and treatment.

“Therefore we are pleased that NHS Fife is meeting both of the cancer waiting times targets.

“This is testament to the hard work of all of our staff on a daily basis and their efforts should be recognised for helping to meet this objective.

“However, NHS Fife will not be complacent in our efforts to ensure that we continue to meet our waiting-time targets as, ultimately, early access to treatment leads to better detection, improved survival and a better experience for patients and their families across the Kingdom.”