At least 800 new medics must be hired to solve GP crisis in Scotland

Many Scots will know only too well the frustration of trying to book an appointment at their GP surgery. Demand can be so high that all places are often taken for the day minutes after a practice opens in the morning.

Medical groups and the Scottish Government are keenly aware of the issue. But there are differences of opinion on the best cure.

Ministers have pledged to hire at least 800 more GPs in the next three years. Now a leading doctor has warned the government is unlikely to reach that target and patients are set to miss out.

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Dr Iain Morrison, chairman of BMA Scotland’s general practice committee, said three million more appointments could be offered every year if the ­recruitment target was met. He warns Scotland has one of the most unwell populations in Europe, caused in part by people living longer and ­developing more complex conditions.

Morrison believes the only viable long-term solution is the government investing directly into GP surgeries. He predicts more GPs will choose to quit the profession altogether.

It’s an alarming claim and one that will concern anyone worried about their own health or someone close to them. The Scottish Government points out the country already has a higher number of GPs per head of population than other UK nations.

But ministers must not lose sight of their recruitment target. Scotland needs more GPs so more appointments can be offered to patients.

Don’t let most vulnerable down

It’s a national tragedy that so many young people in the care system have been lost to suicide or drug overdoses. These deaths were preventable and involved young Scots who should have been supported better.

Instead they were badly let down. About 12,000 children and young people are in care in Scotland. They deserve the same chances in life as anyone else.

A secure and stable upbringing is their right. There must be a care system in place that can provide it. Scotland shamefully has a higher mortality rate for under-18s than any other western European country, with over 300 children and young people dying every year.

And children and young people in state care are up to five times more likely to die than those who grow up cared for by their families. The care system must adapt to ensure the most vulnerable ­youngsters know support is always there for them.

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