Age Scotland responds to 'worrying' report on primary care 

Responding to the recent Audit Scotland report on GPs, our Chief Executive Katherine Crawfor, said:

"This report paints a worrying picture of the state of primary care across Scotland. It also sadly reflects what older people have been telling us about their experiences trying to access the health care they need.

"Increasingly, we are hearing of older people being unable to get timely appointments with GPs, physiotherapists, and nurses, with many waiting more than a week to see someone. The situation is particularly bad in more rural areas.

"The growing popularity of virtual appointments may be useful for some patients, but it presents challenges for many older people especially if it is the only option available. Additionally some older patients have physical or cognitive conditions that can only be properly assessed in person.  

"We also hear of local GP practices closing, and services such as blood tests and clinics for conditions being moved out of GP surgeries, making it even more difficult for older people to access the care they need.
 
"Our population is ageing which will continue to put pressure on health and social care services. The Scottish Government must act now to ensure that older people are able to access healthcare easily. More must also be done to reduce pressure on the service in the first place, through investment in preventative care, early interventions, home adaptations and improved social care provision."