Commenting on the publication of the Scottish Government’s proposals to change the way outpatient care is delivered, Professor Derek Bell, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, said:
"Healthcare professionals across the NHS continue to work tirelessly to meet patient needs and deliver safe patient care, but are facing considerable pressure from a range of factors, such as an ageing population and workforce challenges.
"We welcome proposals designed to reduce these pressures and are keen to evaluate how they can improve our patients’ journeys through the health service. Of paramount importance will be ensuring that patients are treated in the most appropriate setting, at the right time, cared for by the right person, and that adequate resources are provided to meet these challenges across all settings.
"There are many examples of good practice that must be shared and better use of technology, such as the appropriate use of e-consultations, could improve patient experiences of the NHS and help to reduce the pressures faced by those working in it."
Contact: Lisa Rooke - 0131 247 3688 / 07717 895628 / l.rooke@rcpe.ac.uk
