Na h-Eileanan an Iar MSP Alasdair Allan has today welcomed the publication of the Scottish Government’s Health and Social Care Delivery Plan, which confirms that the Western Isles is likely to retain its own health board under any immediate changes to NHS structures in Scotland.

The plan sets out a series of key actions for government and local health and care services to deliver better patient care and better population health. The Government has been examining the number, structure and regulation of health boards, as well as their relationship with local authorities.

Alasdair Allan commented:

“I have had a number of enquiries in the islands about this subject and have raised them with ministers. The prevailing view of people in the Western Isles, which I conveyed to the Government, is that they greatly value the Western Isles having their own NHS Board and would not wish to see it amalgamated into any other health board area.

“I am glad to see that these reforms will help boards work and plan services together more effectively, while keeping NHS Western Isles in place. This is an opportunity for NHS Western Isles to focus on delivering care in the isles, and try and demonstrate that our communities are best served by a dedicated health board. 

“I also welcome the commitment that the Government’s approach will be “island-proofed” so that the distinct nature and needs of island communities are recognised in the Scottish Government’s approach to health and social care.”