 The new GP contracts are aimed at reducing workload |
Concerns over plans for a new system of out-of-hours medical cover in one part of Scotland have been eased after an agreement involving health chiefs. A consultation exercise in Dumfries and Galloway revealed fears over changes to evening and weekend provision in remote rural areas.
Some 30 GPs wrote to the prime minister, the majority from Dumfries and Galloway, outlining concerns.
However, revised proposals have now been agreed.
Despite the compromise, South of Scotland Tory MSP, David Mundell, said local medical services were still in "uncharted waters".
Ease workload
He warned that instead of patients being able to call on local doctors out-of-hours, they might have to travel to hospital in Dumfries for assessment and treatment.
Mr Mundell said there were still many unanswered questions about transport arrangements for people without a car, how it would impact on the ambulance service and whether it would lead to overload in the admissions ward at the hospital.
Under the new GP contract, which came into effect this year, responsibility for all out-of-hours calls will shift to local health boards.
The measure is designed to ease rural doctors' workloads and encourage recruitment.
All health boards must have their alternative arrangements in place by December.
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