A new analysis by Scottish Liberal Democrats claims almost 600 “excess deaths” are linked to lengthy emergency department (A&E) waits in Scotland during the first eight months of 2026. The Herald Scotland reports the figure as 597 excess deaths, based on the party’s review.
The Scotsman also frames the issue as extremely serious, describing A&E delays as “lethal” and using the same broad claim of nearly 600 deaths. It emphasises the political framing offered by the Liberal Democrats, arguing healthcare problems have worsened during the SNP’s time in charge, though it does not provide additional independent evidence or alternative estimates in the provided summary.
Across the two outlets, the central focus is the Liberal Democrats’ interpretation of excess mortality during a defined period in 2026, with differences mainly in tone and political blame rather than the underlying figures cited.
