Health bosses scrap care move
Plans to move healthcare from a rural Perthshire village have been scrapped, saving patients a 40-mile round trip for routine treatments.
Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership had proposed to move a number of tasks from Aberfeldy and Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice’s base in Kinloch Rannoch, to the new Dalweem Care and Treatment Centre in Aberfeldy.
These tasks had previously been carried out by practice nurses or healthcare assistants within the Kinloch Rannoch base of Aberfeldy and Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice, who also have a base in Aberfeldy.
The Kinloch Rannoch GP had written to local residents earlier this month informing them of the plan to move services, stating the changes are due to a new contract negotiated by the Scottish Government, prompting concern from some politicians.
However, bosses at the Kinloch Rannoch surgery have moved to reassure patients that treatments will continue to run from the local surgery, and services will only be transferred if sustainable for the local healthcare system.
Alice Maxwell, practice manager, said:“The majority of comments were about the proposal of some nursing services being taken over by the health board and being delivered from a community care and treatment centre.
“At this point we would like to reassure patients in Kinloch Rannoch that the nursing services will remain in Kinloch Rannoch and you would not be expected to travel to Aberfeldy.
“The feedback was very helpful and complimentary of the practice, especially of the dedicated, professional, caring nursing team.”
The Scottish Government had said changes would only be in circumstances where it is safe, appropriate, and improves patient care.
John Swinney MSP welcomed the news, after contacting the health secretary Jeanne Freeman with his constituents’concerns.
Mr Swinney said:“The Scottish Government’s response, and the subsequent statement from Aberfeldy and Kinloch Rannoch Medical Practice, will provide reassurance to residents of Kinloch Rannoch.
“Moreover, there is explicit confirmation that the Scottish Government is not imposing changes on local practices.
“Instead, the new GP contract allows GPs, local communities and other healthcare service providers to take a more active role in how to deliver primary care.
“I am hopeful that this substantive and positive response from the Scottish Government will assuage any fears local residents may have, and I am pleased that I was able to effectively raise these concerns with the relevant authorities.”