COWDENBEATH MSP Annabelle Ewing has welcomed the news that for the past two and a half years 100% of eligible IVF patients across Scotland started treatment within 12 months of being referred, above the target of 90%.

Ms Ewing said on Friday: “This is really good news for people in my constituency, and throughout Scotland, seeking IVF treatment.

“Not only is the target of 90% starting treatment within 12 months being met, it has been exceeded to the extent that - for the past two and half years - every eligible patient seeking IVF has started treatment within a year of referral".

Ms Ewing added: “The Scottish Government has invested more than £30 million over five years to help ensure that IVF waiting times are consistently met and that the outcome for patients is improved.

“Well done to the NHS staff whose hard work and commitment make this possible. Scotland continues to lead the way in the provision of NHS IVF treatment and the ability to start treatment within a year of being referred is so important to people trying to conceive.“