9^th February 2010

Engagement on future arrangements for GP Practices

NHS Western Isles is currently developing options in consultation with all stakeholders to ensure the continuation of sustainable medical services in South Lochs, Uig and Bernera.

There is a need to consider future arrangements for Pairc Medical Practice, as one of the two current GPs covering the practice leaves at the end of February. (The practice will be covered by locum GPs in the meantime) The salaried GP covering Uig and Bernera retired in early September 2009 and the Practice is currently being covered by a long term locum.

The main aims of the work will be to guarantee as a minimum the maintenance of current levels of local clinical provision, with an expectation of service development locally. We also aim to work towards:

• The availability of a wider range of enhanced services
• A wider range of specialist skills available
• More robust pharmacy/dispensing arrangements
• Increased availability of nurses with different interests and skills
• Maintenance of skills of GPs/Practice Nurses

Pairc Medical Practice and Uig and Bernera Medical Practice were both taken over in the past by NHS Western Isles, after GPs running the practices retired.

Medical Director Dr Jim Ward commented: “Retaining single handed GPs in small rural practices is exceedingly difficult and this has led to consideration being given to alternative ways to provide high quality, sustainable services to patients.”

Representatives from the Health Board have already met with community groups and elected members to discuss and share progress on future possibilities and assurances have been given that this is not an attempt to close either practice or downgrade services.

Dr Ward added: “A clear statement that a shared purpose to ensure high quality sustainable primary care services was made from both NHS Western Isles and community perspectives.”

A leaflet detailing proposals will be distributed to those in the Uig and Bernera and Pairc areas and meetings will be held in the near future to ensure members of public are kept up to date and engaged with changes.

Details of meetings will be widely advertised shortly.