Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

91-Year-Old Dies After Four-Hour A&E Wait

1/23/2026

41 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Christina Chisholm, 91, died after a four-hour wait outside Accident and Emergency (A&E) at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness on December 8, after developing breathing difficulties and collapsing in a hospital toilet.
Paramedics provided oxygen during the wait because her condition worsened when the oxygen was removed.
Elizabeth McDonald, Christina Chisholm's daughter, said long waits have become routine for paramedics and called for systemic change.

History

Historical Context

The National Health Service (NHS) has faced ongoing challenges since its establishment in 1948, including funding issues and staffing shortages. In 2010, significant budget cuts led to increased wait times, with 1 in 10 patients experiencing delays in emergency care. Christina Chisholm's death at Raigmore Hospital highlights the urgent need for reform to address systemic failures in emergency services and ensure timely medical attention.

1 of 2

Story summary

Christina Chisholm, 91, died after a four-hour wait outside Accident and Emergency (A&E) at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness on December 8, after developing breathing difficulties and collapsing in a hospital toilet.
Paramedics provided oxygen during the wait because her condition worsened when the oxygen was removed.
Elizabeth McDonald, Christina Chisholm's daughter, said long waits have become routine for paramedics and called for systemic change.

1 / 2