First Minister sets out major increase in NHS
capacity.
People across Scotland will have better access to NHS treatment
through increased capacity, expanded primary care services,
enhanced use of digital innovations and a range of other
measures, First Minister announced today.
Speaking to representatives from across the health and social
care sector, the First Minister set out action to drive down
waiting times and reduce pressure on frontline services.
The First Minister was joined by Health Secretary and announced a range of actions
including:
- A substantial increase in capacity, with 150,000 additional
appointments and procedures per year
- Increased investment in primary care, making it easier for
people to get appointments with their GP
- Improved use of data and new digital innovations including
the roll-out of a Scottish health and social care app – a
‘Digital Front Door' to the NHS for patients
The First Minister said:
“Protecting, strengthening, renewing our National Health Service
– that is a goal I think we can all get behind. A real focus of
common purpose.
“That requires action from me, as First Minister, from my Health
Secretary , and from my Government. We can
offer the leadership and direction – as the measures outlined
today seek to do.
“So, today, we commit to a substantial increase in capacity in
order to significantly reduce people's waits.
“Our plan will ensure that a greater proportion of new NHS
funding goes to primary and community care. GPs and services in
the community will have the resources they need to play a greater
role in our health system.
“This increased investment will result in GP services that are
easier for people to access. That is important in terms of
people's confidence in the health service – but equally, it will
make it more likely that health issues are picked up quickly and
dealt with earlier.
“Our National Health Service is there when we need it. No other
public institution supports us with so much care through life's
biggest moments. We must support it in return.
“The approach I set out today charts our course to do that. It
addresses both the challenges and the opportunities. It sets the
NHS on a path of modernisation and renewal.”
Background
Improving Public Services
and NHS Renewal - First Minister's speech - gov.scot
