MP voices concern as constituents struggle to access GP appointments
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Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has written to health bosses to raise concerns from across the constituency about difficulties in accessing GP appointments.
People in towns and villages including Fraserburgh, Mintlaw, Cruden Bay and Peterhead have all reported problems with getting to see a doctor face-to-face.
Surgeries across the country implemented changes during the Covid-19 lockdown, with patients told not to stay at home if they thought they had Coronavirus symptoms, while phone and video appointments were introduced.
However, the public were reminded throughout the summer not to delay seeking help if they thought they were unwell.
Mr Duguid said many constituents have since said they have had problems getting through on the phone, are unable to get past receptionists or are directed to fill out forms instead.
The Scottish Conservative MP has written to NHS Grampian to ask if the current system is working and whether any changes need to be made.
He said: “I think people understand that we are in the middle of a pandemic and that services are not running as normal.
“However, I am being contacted by an increasing number of constituents that are struggling to get access to a doctor at all.
“It is very concerning that people are having such difficulty in getting seen by a GP.
“National figures show that referral rates for cancer have dropped by a fifth in Scotland, and there is a growing sense that the lockdown has led to the build-up of serious health issues.
“It is vital that GP services remain accessible so that people can get treatment and diagnoses in a timely manner.
“I have asked NHS Grampian what is being done to ensure our medical professionals are not missing the opportunity to catch serious or terminal conditions at an early stage.”
