Plans to resume some elective surgery in the Western Isles

NHS Western Isles plans to resume some elective surgery from Monday, January 31, following a period of postponement due to service pressure. 

In its efforts to respond appropriately to urgent, cancer and unplanned care, the difficult decision had been taken on November 24, 2021 to postpone non-urgent planned care episodes and appointments. 

From the end of January, it is planned to resume day case procedures. Inpatient elective activity will also be gradually reintroduced as capacity allows. We will be contacting patients individually as appointments are scheduled, so we ask that patients do not contact us at this time to ask for appointment details.  

Procedures resuming include Elective Orthopaedic, General Surgery and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, in addition to Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, and Endoscopy activity. 

Patients will be listed for surgery according to the Scottish Government Clinical Prioritisation Framework. 

Due to the number of procedures being rescheduled, there will be longer waiting lists for some surgery. We apologise for this and appreciate your patience and understanding.