Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Raises Concerns Over Cardiac Waiting Times in Ayrshire and Arran

More than 2,000 people in Ayrshire and Arran are waiting for a cardiac appointment. 

The findings are detailed in Public Health Scotland’s Scottish Cardiac Audit Programme 2025, published last month.  

The most recent data, for June this year, shows 2,403 people on the outpatient waiting list for cardiology, down from 2,574 in June 2024. That list is typically for people waiting for a consultation regarding an appointment with a cardiologist. The Scottish Government’s wait time target for a new outpatient cardiology appointment is 12 weeks; however, 1,236 people on the current waiting list have already exceeded this timeframe. While this is a slight improvement from 1,417 last year, a significant number of patients are still waiting beyond the government’s standard.

64 people are on the inpatient list for a procedure, which will keep them in the hospital, which is down from 74 the year before. 

Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said: 

“The figures published in the Scottish Cardiac Audit outline some clear concerns that the Scottish Government must heed, and we need urgent action from them to get on top of this issue.  

“While the waiting list for important appointments has come down in Ayrshire and Arran, we need to see the Scottish Government make quicker and deeper progress to cut those lists and waits down even further.  

“Long waiting times can be extremely stressful for people awaiting vital treatment - and delays can have critical consequences. That stress and anxiety are felt by loved ones, too. It’s unacceptable to have people put their lives on hold for so long.  

“Rehabilitation is just as crucial. With the right support, in the right place, at the right time, we can reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and help people live their lives to the full.  

“Beyond the physical impact, these delays bring emotional and psychological challenges. People are left waiting for long periods without communication, and even after a health event, there’s often no clear plan for support. Once again, the Third Sector is stepping in to fill the gap.  

“While we welcome the First Minister’s November announcement on tackling waiting lists, it doesn’t go far enough. Without targeted investment in cardiac care and support across all health boards, we risk leaving thousands of people behind.” 

If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and are looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. You can also text ADVICE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.