Scotland’s doctors call for increased investment

By LIZZY BUCHAN
Published 5th Nov 2015, 00:00 BST
Patients in Glasgow and elsewhere are putting extra demand on services. Picture: John DevlinPatients in Glasgow and elsewhere are putting extra demand on services. Picture: John Devlin
Patients in Glasgow and elsewhere are putting extra demand on services. Picture: John Devlin
Doctors’ leaders have called for “significantly increased investment” to address the increasing gap between demand and resources in Scotland’s NHS.

In its manifesto for the 2016 Holyrood election, BMA Scotland today said the current model is “unsustainable” and called on ministers to review performance targets, make working in Scotland more attractive to fill vacant posts and commit to supporting general practice.

Scotland’s ageing population brings increased demand for NHS services and the NHS is facing real problems recruiting and retaining staff, the union said.

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Dr Peter Bennie, chair of BMA Scotland, said: “This is a critical juncture for the NHS in Scotland and it is vital that there is an open and honest debate about its future direction at the coming election. People are living longer lives, but with that, more and more people are living with chronic illnesses and often have complex care needs.