WEDNESDAY, 13 JULY, 2016

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Urgent information for patients at Brechin Health Centre

From Thursday, 14 July and until further notice, the open access GP clinics at Brechin Health Centre will no longer be available. NHS Tayside apologises for this, however, this is due to a shortage of doctor cover at the GP practice.

Patients are advised to telephone the practice on 01356 624411 if they require healthcare.

Patients should be reassured that those who need an appointment or require to be seen on Thursday or Friday will be directed to the most appropriate healthcare professional or service for their needs. GPs will be available at the practice, however, other healthcare professionals may be more suitable to treat your individual needs.

Professor Andrew Russell, Medical Director with NHS Tayside, said, “We are sorry that we have had to withdraw the walk-in clinics at short notice, however, despite the best efforts of staff, it has proved impossible to secure the GP cover needed. The new arrangement will allow us to ensure that all those patients who are assessed and require a consultation with a doctor, will get one.

“There is no change to those services delivered by practice nurses and so those patients who have an appointment at the health centre for Thursday or Friday should attend as it is business as usual for practice nursing services.

“People can also drop off and collect prescription requests at the health centre as usual.

“GP cover at the practice continues to be challenging, especially over the holiday period as it is more difficult to secure locum doctors due to the increased demand for locums across the country.

“We really appreciate the support of the community at this time. We are working hard to put sustainable arrangements in place at Brechin Health Centre over the summer holidays, however, the open access clinics will be withdrawn for the remainder of July and August. We will keep patients informed about any changes to arrangements.

“We are actively recruiting to the vacant posts at Brechin but the situation remains a big challenge and our doctors and nurses are working really hard every day to deliver a safe and sustainable service for the people of Brechin.”

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