WEDNESDAY, 8 JUNE, 2016

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brechin Health Centre GP shortages this week

Due to ongoing GP staffing challenges in Brechin Health Centre, there will be a reduced level of GP cover provided within the health centre on Thursday and Friday of this week (9 and 10 June).

The walk in surgeries will run as usual between 8.30 and 10.30 but with reduced staffing. All patients presenting will be triaged by a member of the clinical team on arrival to ensure they see the best healthcare professional for their problem.

Dr Michelle Watts, Associate Medical Director, Primary Care Services for NHS Tayside, said, “GP recruitment and retention is a national problem, affecting health boards across Scotland. We are working hard to recruit GPs for Brechin to care for the local population as part of our commitment to develop a sustainable and high-quality practice which in turn will attract staff to the area.

“We recognise the difficulties the lack of GP and nurse staffing is having on patients who access our services in Brechin, and are grateful for their support during this challenging period.”

To minimise the waiting time for those who require to be seen on the day, patients who do not require same day attention are not to attend the walk in surgery this Thursday and Friday.

The Minor Injury and Illness Unit in Brechin will be open as normal between the hours of 9am and 4.30pm and people with minor injuries are asked to present directly at the minor injury unit.

Your local community pharmacies can also offer advice and treatment for many minor illnesses such as sore throats, coughs, colds and upset stomachs. Repeat prescriptions can be ordered directly at your normal community pharmacy.

Contact:

Gaynyr Dickson

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740138