A “successful” system used by NHS Tayside to move A&E patients as quickly as possible to the most appropriate service is to be adopted throughout Scotland.
A&E departments nationally are being issued new non-emergency care guidance to help them signpost patients once they have had a consultation with a senior clinician.
This will help the emergency departments focus on patients who have emergency care needs and reduce the amount of time those patients have to wait to receive treatment.
NHS Tayside’s system is already in place at Ninewells and Perth Royal Infirmary, where they see around 80,000 patients each year in A&E.
After consultation, around 4,000 patients each year are signposted to a different service.
The health board’s chief executive Lesley McLay said: “This system has helped NHS Tayside consistently meet and exceed A&E waiting times targets and become one of the best performing boards in Scotland.
“Members of the public have always recognised that A&E is for those with genuine emergencies.
“However they are not always aware of what alternatives are out there.
“By having a senior clinician assess and redirect patients as necessary we can ensure that everyone receives the appropriate treatment.”