The recent decision to award NHS Lothian and Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board executives a 10% pay increase has sparked widespread debate and criticism, amidst ongoing scrutiny of these organizations. The temporary increase, approved recently, could be worth up to £20,000 annually for some individuals, further fueling concerns about the prioritization of executive compensation over patient care.

The decision to award these pay rises comes at a time when both health boards are facing significant pressure regarding performance and resource allocation. NHS Lothian, for example, has been under review concerning patient waiting times and staffing levels, while Greater Glasgow and Clyde has been subject to scrutiny over its handling of specific service delivery challenges. Critics argue that awarding pay rises to executives while services struggle is inappropriate and reflects poorly on the NHS's priorities.

While the exact number of executives affected by the pay increase hasn't been publicly released, it is understood to apply to senior management positions within the two largest health boards in Scotland. The rationale for the temporary increase, according to sources within the NHS, is to retain experienced leadership during a period of significant organizational change and to address challenges in recruiting and retaining high-level staff. However, the potential financial impact of the pay rises, totaling up to £20,000 per executive, is a point of contention, with patient advocacy groups and opposition politicians questioning the timing and necessity of such increases.