A Freedom of Information request has revealed that spending by NHS Borders on agency staffing has tripled in three years.
In 2019/20, the health board spent just over £2 million on agency staffing.
By 2022/23, this figure had increased to £7.3 million, the highest level on record since at least 2010.
In April, NHS Borders said they were facing a £28 million deficit and previously warned that services would be impacted.
The public will be deeply concerned by these shocking new figures.
Spending on agency staffing at NHS Borders is increasing rapidly to record levels.
Our NHS staff do a fantastic job but these figures raise serious questions about staff recruitment.
When local health services are suffering a financial crisis, it's vital that every penny is spent wisely in the most cost-effective way.
The SNP Government must introduce a stronger recruitment strategy for rural healthcare so these issues don't continue to get worse in the Borders.
