THERE can be no doubt about the crisis affecting general practice in Scotland (“Third of GP trainee places unfilled”, The Herald, October 24).
Factor in a BMA survey revealing that 35 per cent of GPs plan to retire within five years and the scale of the crisis becomes crystal clear. The GP service that we all take for granted is in grave danger.
The BMA is negotiating a new contract for general practice with the Scottish Government. Initial promises by the First Minister of increased funding to the service subsequently appeared to be watered down by the Health Minister.
We all need a properly functioning health service. The Scottish Government cannot afford to be half-hearted in its response to this crisis.
Dr Bruce Halliday,
Stormont, Dalbeattie Road, Dumfries.
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