Pleasebe clearonPRI, saysFraser
Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has accused the Scottish Government of creating “confusion” regarding the future of Perth Royal Infirmary’s A&E department.
The Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP held discussions at the Scottish Parliament this week on the future of emergency surgery in NHS Tayside with Jeane Freeman, the SNP health secretary.
Mr Fraser claimed Ms Freeman “accepted her part in creating confusion” over the future of A&E in Perth through a statement released in July.
In the meeting, Mr Fraser claimed the cabinet secretary admitted that a fully functioning A&E department, with necessary back-up services, could still be offered at PRI, but only if this was included within the clinical strategy that NHS Tayside medical experts are currently working on.
She also confirmed the public will get to have their say on the finalised proposals with a consultation set to go live before next summer.
Mr Fraser said: “I was pleased to hear the cabinet secretary accept the Scottish Government’s part in creating confusion over the relocation of all unscheduled care to Ninewells as a result of their statement in July.
“I was also pleased to hear assurances over the future of A&E at PRI and look forward to examining, in detail, the specifics of this plan when it is made public.
“Liz Smith and I have had staff members at PRI contact us with their concerns about the future of emergency surgery at PRI.
“This situation has not been helped by the mixed messages both staff and public have been hearing.
“In confirming that the finalised plans will be subject to a further public consultation, the Scottish Government has accepted that the public’s voice must be heard.
“I believe that a patient focused approach is the only way of delivering successful healthcare locally.
“The provision of emergency medicine in Tayside is incredibly important and over the coming months I will focus on ensuring patients in rural parts of Perth and Kinross continue to be served by a safe, efficient and local A&E service.”
The PA contacted the Scottish Government for comment from Ms Freeman, but had not received a reply by the time of going to press.