Expand life-saving Tayside heart project

Sir, - I refer to two articles regarding NHS Tayside which you published on March 28.

The first reported more than £4 million in bonuses was paid to consultants for performing their duties, and for which they already receive very attractive salaries.

The health board justified this as being part of existing agreements, and was dismissive of any concern expressed by, among others, Liam Kerr MSP.

The second referred to the possibility that the Heartstart Discovery project could lose its NHS funding which covers the salary of a part-time co-ordinator.

The course is run by volunteers including nurses who give their services free, and the scheme provides a great service to the community by offering training in CPR which saves lives. Since its inception in 1997, 100,000 people have received training.

If someone has a heart attack and stops breathing, they will be dead in 10 minutes if CPR is not administered until emergency services arrive.

I attended one of the courses, and, whereas previously I would not have had a clue what to do, without claiming to be an expert, I would now intervene, because not doing so will lead to the patient’s demise.

The courses are very well delivered by an excellent team.

It is outrageous NHS Tayside should be even contemplating withdrawing funding for one part-time co-ordinator while paying huge bonuses to consultants.

Instead of this, they should be considering how the scheme could be expanded, and if they are not willing to fund more full-time staff, perhaps a bonus to the willing volunteers might be in order.

And if no funds are available even for this, a portion of the consultants’ bonuses could be taken. I am sure the consultants would not object to recognising the achievements of this worthwhile venture in this manner. Ronald Oliver. 4 Lethnot Street, Broughty Ferry.