"Ultrasound delays"

We sincerely apologise for the distress and anxiety caused by the current challenges within our Obstetric ultrasound department in NHS Tayside.

As a senior leadership team, we are actively advancing sustainable workforce planning within Obstetric ultrasound, aligned to the Health Improvement Scotland safer staffing legislation.

Over recent months we have experienced both anticipated and unforeseen workforce availability challenges. In response, we have and continue to take steps to expand the sonography workforce.

Our waiting lists are reviewed daily and prioritised by specialist clinicians to allocate scans based on clinical indication.

We are aware that some scans may be performed out with national guidance, we will ensure that appropriate support and alternative care options are given to all individuals following their scan.

Where any 1st trimester pregnancy screening delay is directly influenced by our service provision, women will be offered an appropriate alternative screening option in the form of a blood test known as a Non-Invasive Perinatal Testing (NIPT).

We understand the anxiety these delays are causing for families in Tayside. We are taking these current challenges very seriously and have ensured that the appropriate levels of our leadership structure are fully informed and engaged to support urgent and sustainable solutions.

To improve access to our service we have opened up more phone lines to ensure patients can gain the information.

The phone lines are as follows regardless of where your scan is due to be, please use all lines as they will be able to access the information regarding your scan position

Perth - Ext 13270 Phone number 01738 473270
Arbroath - Ext 21236 Phone number 01241 822536
Ninewells - Ext 32019 Phone number 01382 632019