A number of buildings in NHS Borders have been revealed as at “high” or “significant” risk due to a lack of maintenance.
Last year, it was reported that nearly half of Scotland’s hospital and healthcare buildings which featured in a maintenance backlog list were considered significantly or highly risky. NHS Borders reported that 32% of buildings which required work were categorised in this way.
Now, after a series of Freedom of Information requests from the Scottish Conservatives, it has been revealed which buildings these warnings apply to.
Borders General Hospital deemed issues in relation to theatres and other pieces of equipment as high risk. Another issue on the high list included the roof at Eyemouth Medical Centre. Facilities across the Borders had significant maintenance issues including at Kelso, Selkirk, Melrose and Galashiels.
Commenting, John Lamont MP and Rachael Hamilton MSP have said this is an issue points to a lack of investment in our health service and that the SNP Government need to get to grips with the problem.
Rachael Hamilton said: “The buildings in our NHS need to be up to a suitable standard to protect patient care and to ensure a safe working environment for staff.
“This information shows some buildings in the Borders are in a shocking state and there are real question marks hanging over the life expectancy of some.
“This issue hasn’t suddenly cropped up. The SNP has been in sole charge of health for the past decade, but has let this spiral completely out of control.”