The Scottish Government would like to clarify the position of NHS Scotland when people present to health care services with problems resulting from privately arranged and funded surgery overseas:

• While the NHS in Scotland will always provide emergency care where necessary, all routine pre and post-operative care should be part of the package of care purchased by the individual patient.

• There will be no obligation on NHS Boards to provide such routine pre and postoperative care.

• In the event of a patient advising a healthcare professional of plans to travel overseas for privately arranged and purchased surgery, they should be advised firstly that this is not recommended, and secondly that there will be no obligation on their local NHS Board to provide routine pre and post-operative care. All care required should be provided within the package of care sold by the overseas provider.

• Please be aware that Clackmannan & Kincardine Medical Practice is contracted to provide health services in line with our General Medical Services contract and is not under any obligation to follow any request from private health providers. 

Please read this leaflet for further information:  Information for patients attending private hospitals or clinics

The Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service (RCDS) is a service designed to speed up investigations for patients with a range of symptoms which could be cancer. The primary goal is to rule out cancer quickly, reduce uncertainty, and ensure that anyone who does need further care is identified and treated without delay.

You will usually have had a physical examination and have had bloods taken in advance of your referral to the service. It’s important that you let your GP or ANP know if you’re going to be unavailable for any period after the referral (for example, if you’re going on holiday) as your appointments with the RCDS will usually be made quickly.

The video below provides a helpful idea of what the experience of being seen by an RCDS usually involves.