Figures obtained by the BBC found that a record number of operations had been cancelled in Scotland in the first three weeks of January, totalling 704.
NHS Ayrshire and Arran had 70 cancelled operations, making up around 10% of all cancelled operations across Scotland. It was the sixth worst performing health board across the whole of Scotland.
West Scotland MSP Jamie Greene voiced his deep concern over the disproportionate cancellations to local residents, stressing the impact that it could have on their lives.
Jamie praised the tireless efforts of the hard-working people who staff Scottish hospitals and said the blame lies squarely on the shoulders of the SNP government who have full control over this devolved area and have run it for 11 years.
Jamie Greene MSP commented:
“These figures are deeply concerning for patients in North Ayrshire. Local residents will be dismayed to learn about the continuing problems faced by NHS Ayrshire and Arran under the SNP. We desperately need to see an improvement in our local hospitals.
“Learning that your operation has been cancelled not only poses health risks to patients, but it can also be stressful being told you have to wait longer before you can receive a necessary operation.
“After 11 years in charge of our NHS the SNP government our health service is suffering. Operations are being cancelled and patients are having to wait weeks on end just to get an appointment with their doctor. Nicola Sturgeon needs to get a grip on the situation before it gets worse.