SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan has welcomed new action from the Scottish Government to support older people and protect Scotland’s NHS, with specialist frailty services now in place at NHS Western Isles to improve care and ease hospital pressures.

Backed by £200 million of Scottish Government investment nationally, the investment will be focused on ensuring that older patients experience fewer waits and get more effective services.

Allan commented:

“These specialist frailty teams are helping our elderly patients get the right care, in the right place and at the right time.

“As we approach winter, I am encouraged that these teams will help lead to patients experiencing shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times.

“This support and investment from the Scottish Government is in stark contrast with the Labour UK Government whose policies have had such a negative impact on the elderly.

“Despite having to rely on decisions made about our public services at a Westminster budget, the Scottish Government, by contrast has increased GP numbers, cut waiting times and now has specialist frailty teams in place.