SCOTTISH Labour has accused the SNP yesterday of “failing” people with epilepsy amid a rise in waiting times for seizure clinics.

The party made a series of freedom of information requests to Scotland’s 14 health boards on access to first seizure clinics used to diagnose epilepsy. 

Of the seven boards which provided data, four showed an increase in median wait times over the five years to 2024, with one patient having waited 722 days to be seen at the clinic.

Scottish Labour health spokeswoman Dame Jackie Baillie said: “These rising waits for crucial clinics show the SNP is failing Scots with epilepsy.

“A first seizure is a frightening experience for anyone, yet with the right support and treatment, many Scots with epilepsy can live active and healthy lives.

“The SNP must urgently investigate why patients are having to wait so long.”

The Scottish government said: “We’re laser-focused on cutting waiting times,” adding: “We have committed almost £650,000 since 2020 to projects which improve the health and well-being of people with epilepsy, over £400,000 through our neurological care and support framework.”