Dave Thompson MSP

SKYE, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP Dave Thompson has called for NHS Highland to take decisive action to maintain the status quo for health services at Glenelg by appointing a replacement doctor for a GP who is currently on secondment to another area.

Previously Mr Thompson welcomed an announcement from NHS Highland that no decision would be taken until February on how to maintain services while Dr Simon Hurding was seconded to work for the Scottish Government in Edinburgh but, after discussing the situation with constituents and medical professionals, Mr Thompson has decided to issue a clear call for the appointment of an additional doctor to cover duties currently filled by Dr Hurding. Mr Thompson said: “I have always been clear that there must be no reduction in the service offered to the community in Glenelg while one of their two doctors is seconded to another area.

“That is why I am today calling on NHS Highland to appoint a replacement doctor to cover Dr Hurding’s duties.

“I needed to listen to the local community and hear more about the various possible solutions NHS Highland was considering and didn’t want to pre-judge what the answer to this problem should be.

“However, having had those discussions, it is clear that the only answer is the appointment of another GP to ensure the status quo is maintained.”