Lloyd Melville seeks walk-in GP centre for Angus

Candidate writes to Health Secretary

SNP candidate for Angus South Lloyd Melville has this morning written to Health Secretary Neil Gray formally requesting the opening of a walk-in GP centre in Angus South.

Following the SNP Government's announcement of £36 million towards the scheme, Mr Melville has described the policy as a potential "game-changer in places like Angus", helping patients to be seen quicker and reducing pressure on existing GP services.

In his letter, the SNP candidate states "It is vital that the benefits of this transformational policy can be felt across Scotland, and that includes the residents of Angus."

The full text of this letter is included below:

Dear Neil,

WALK-IN GP CENTRE FOR ANGUS SOUTH

I write as SNP candidate for the Angus South constituency, further to the SNP's announcement of new walk-in General Practice hubs throughout Scotland. I am formally requesting that the Scottish Government considers placing one of these hubs within the Angus South constituency.

As you will know, healthcare delivery in smaller towns and rural settings can be challenging - particularly as new housing developments are built. This has been the case in Angus South, where demand on GP services has not yet been matched by current GP practices.

Across Angus South, people have raised the issue of General Practice with me as an area they would like to see further improvement.

I know that the SNP is investing record amounts in General Practice, with increased GP numbers across Scotland. This will no doubt drive continued progress and help residents within Angus South.

However there is more to do to improve services for people, and these walk-in hubs could be a game-changer in places like Angus - reducing pressure on existing services and improving outcomes for patients.

Therefore, I encourage you to actively consider siting one of these new hubs in Angus South, specifically in one of the four towns; Arbroath, Monifieth, Kirriemuir or Carnoustie. These practices not only serve urban and sub-urban communities, but also the rural residents whose services are so often impacted by local changes in population.

This would build on the success of the recent Budget, which announced almost £100 million extra for NHS Tayside, helping patients to be seen faster.

It is vital that the benefits of this transformational policy can be felt across Scotland, and that includes the residents of Angus.

I hope therefore that the Scottish Government will actively consider Angus South as a potential site for these new facilities, and would be very happy to meet with you to discuss the matter further.

With best wishes,

Lloyd Melville,

SNP candidate for Angus South