20th August 2015
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 has launched its ‘Creating a Healthier Scotland’ debate in 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 next April, focusing on how best to support people in leading healthier lives, the areas of health and social care that matter most, and where the focus should be when thinking about the future of these services.
BMA Scotland chair Dr Peter Bennie supports the scheme, highlighting the positive direction of the conversation and its importance in confronting the reality of the doctors’ pressures now and in the future. “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.”