By Craig Paton

Copyright independent

More than 800 deaths in Scotland are believed to be linked to prolonged waits in Accident & Emergency departments, according to the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM).

The RCEM estimates 818 excess deaths occurred due to patients waiting 12 hours or longer, based on a standard mortality ratio.

Last year, 76,510 people waited over 12 hours in Scottish emergency departments, an increase of 20,432 from the previous year.

Dr Fiona Hunter of RCEM Scotland described the figures as a ‘national tragedy’ and urged political parties to adopt the RCEM’s manifesto recommendations for improving emergency care.

While opposition parties criticised the Scottish government’s handling of the crisis, Health Secretary Neil Gray acknowledged the issue but highlighted recent improvements and increased investment.