Chamberlain writes to Health Secretary over stroke patient’s 80-mile journey for care

Scottish Liberal Democrat MP for North East Fife Wendy Chamberlain has written to Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray, raising urgent concerns about a stroke patient from Newport-on-Tay receiving care many miles from home.

Mr Scott, who is currently receiving treatment in Inverness after suffering a stroke while on holiday, is now ready to be transferred to a facility closer to home to continue his rehabilitation.

However, despite the Royal Victoria Hospital in Dundee being the closest hospital to his home, NHS Tayside has refused his admission. Instead, Mr Scott has been offered treatment at Cameron Hospital in Windygates or at Queen Margaret Hospital in Dunfermline – up to an 80-mile round trip away.

This decision has left his wife, who is herself seriously unwell with a brain tumour and other health conditions, unable to visit him.

Wendy Chamberlain MP said:

"Mr Scott’s condition is deteriorating, and the refusal to allow him to access treatment closer to home is deeply concerning.

“Denying family contact to a vulnerable patient is unacceptable and places unnecessary strain not only on Mr Scott but also on his wife, who is unable to make the journey due to her own serious health issues.

"I have urged NHS Tayside to reconsider this position as a matter of compassion and humanity. Being supported by loved ones during recovery is not a luxury -it is a fundamental part of care.

“I have also asked the Cabinet Secretary to ensure that NHS Tayside urgently reviews this case and to clarify what guidance is in place to ensure compassion and patient welfare remain at the heart of decision-making."