NHS Grampian has faced significant challenges with costly repairs to buildings affected by Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (Raac), spending a total of £560,000 since January 2023. This amount is considerably higher than other health boards in Scotland combined, highlighting the scale of the issue within the region.
One of the facilities heavily impacted by Raac was Denburn Medical Centre on Rosemount Viaduct, where over £100,000 was spent on repairs. The discovery of Raac accelerated the closure of the medical practice, with staff and patients relocating to Carden House. Despite being considered derelict, the health board had to invest in repairs to prevent further deterioration of the building and ensure safety.
NHS Grampian continues to work on remediation efforts to address Raac in labs and at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The health board is committed to prioritizing the safety of staff and patients in affected locations, sharing their progress and learnings with other health boards in Scotland.
While NHS Grampian remains dedicated to managing the Raac crisis, concerns have been raised about the financial strain it has placed on the health board. Scottish Conservative North East MSP Liam Kerr emphasized the importance of addressing the disproportionate cost burden facing NHS Grampian compared to other health boards. Finding a resolution with the Scottish Government to alleviate some of these financial pressures is crucial for the well-being of patients and staff in the region.
The Raac issue has raised awareness about the importance of building safety and maintenance in healthcare facilities. As organizations work towards addressing these challenges, collaboration and support from government entities are essential to ensure the continued delivery of quality healthcare services without compromising on safety standards. By sharing insights and resources, health boards can collectively navigate through crises like Raac and create a safer environment for all stakeholders involved.