This site is intended for health professionals only


Scottish GPs invited to tell Government about pressures they face

GPs have been invited to tell the Scottish Government about the pressures that they are under during the country’s ‘national debate’ on the future of NHS services.

The Scottish Government launched its Creating a Healthier Scotland debate in Dundee last week, with discussions with staff from the NHS, care sectors, charities and patient groups.

It is the first of a series of events held around Scotland between now and April next year. The debate will focus on the support needed for people to lead healthier lives, the areas of health and social care that matter most, and where the focus should be when thinking about the future of health and social care services.

BMA Scotland chair Dr Peter Bennie said: ‘It is absolutely right that this conversation should ask people what they want from their health service and encourage people to live healthier lives, but it is equally important that the conversation confronts the reality of the pressure on doctors, nurses and healthcare workers – now and in the future.’

He added: ‘I would encourage doctors working in the NHS; in hospitals, communities and GP practices across the country, to join in this conversation. Not just to provide a professional perspective, but as members of the public who, like everyone else, rely on the services provided by our NHS.’

Health secretary Shona Robison said: ‘I want to seek agreement on how to make more progress in improving the health of the population, and on how our NHS and social care system should develop by 2030 to continue to supporting everyone to live well.’