We must ensure we’re not simply shifting NHS pressures
Responding to publication of a new strategy which aims to free up hospital outpatient appointments by referring some patients to community healthcare professionals, Alison Johnstone MSP, Health spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, said:
“Easing the pressure on our hospitals is essential and these proposals are welcome. However, we must ensure we’re not simply shifting the pressure from one part of the health service to another. Helping patients be seen closer to home must mean greater investment and staffing in our GP surgeries and at community health centres, and ensuring we have adequate numbers of physiotherapists and podiatrists, for example.
"General practice is already struggling to cope and the public need reassurance that this shift in how they are treated has been carefully thought through.”
The Modern Outpatient: A Collaborative Approach (NHS Scotland)