In the past eight years the NHS north of the border has saved an estimated £20 million through effectively tackling fraud, Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon has said.

Since the founding of NHS Scotland Counter Fraud Services (CFS) in July 2000 it is believed £19.7 million has been saved, once the costs of running the agency are taken into account.

CFS initiatives to date include a phone number and website to anonymously report suspicious activity.

"Any fraud against the NHS is unacceptable and, whether it's a patient falsely claiming exemption from charges, healthcare professionals claiming payment for treatment they haven't carried out or a supplier overcharging for goods, NHS fraud takes money away from where it is needed most," Sturgeon said.

"While we know only a minority commit fraud against the NHS, the amount recovered through the CFS demonstrates so very clearly the value and importance of the measures taken by the service and NHS boards."

Speaking at a conference today, the Health Secretary also announced that the Royal College of Midwives Scotland will sign a charter committing the professional body to working against healthcare fraud.

Paul Vincke, president of the European Healthcare Fraud and Corruption Network, added: "For long-term prosperity, healthcare organisations in Europe must be proactive in tackling the problem of fraud and corruption by working together.

"Sitting back and waiting for fraud to happen will only lead to further losses and a reduced standard of care.

"With estimates indicating that billions of pounds are lost across Europe each year, organisations must do something about it now, and those like CFS who have taken action are already saving more money for healthcare provision as a result," he said.