Tavish criticises NHS as Bressay left without nurse
SHETLAND MSP Tavish Scott has criticised the local health board’s “inaction” after it was confirmed Bressay will be without a resident nurse this winter.
NHS Shetland said on Wednesday that the island has been without access to immediate care since October when its resident nurse left for a new job.
However, it is expected that the vacant post will only be advertised in January, meaning that the successful candidate is line to start the role in the spring.
Scott, who hails from Bressay, said the health board had let the island down after he was previously told the post would be advertised in November.
“NHS Shetland have not been straight with Bressay people. We are now left through the winter months depending on the skills of the Bressay ferry crew for emergencies and without a nurse living in the island,” he said.
“People already have experience of phoning NHS call centres to be asked where Bressay is? I am very concerned that the inaction of NHS Shetland has left islanders facing a worrying winter.
“Many people are very worried by this especially the elderly. I could live with being told the truth in October when our previous excellent nurse left for a new job. But the NHS have not been straight with me or the people of Bressay. I do not find that acceptable.”
Scott said he met NHS Shetland chief executive Ralph Roberts on Tuesday for an update on the situation.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the MSP also raised suggestions that some nursing posts the isles may be being kept unfilled by the health board in a bid to save money.
“There are community nursing vacancies across Shetland,” Scott continued.
“Some believe these are being kept vacant to save money. I do not know whether that is true or not. But I am very frustrated about the manner in which Bressay is being treated by NHS Shetland.”
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The local health board responded by reiterating its commitment to having a district nursing service on Bressay.
It also gave locals guidance on how to seek nursing or medical help while the post is vacant.
District nursing services are being provided on a visiting basis by the Lerwick team during Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Anyone with a new nursing requirement should contact 01595 743093.
Those who have nursing needs outwith office hours should contact NHS 24 on 111 and ask for the district nursing service.
Residents with medical needs should contact the Lerwick Health Centre on 01595 743216 between 9am-5pm on Monday to Friday to arrange an appointment or a home visit. Residents can access the on call GP during outside office hours by contacting NHS 24. In an emergency, residents are asked to call 999.
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