Leading GP warns over 'boom and bust' funding approach

A LEADING GP has backed an Audit Scotland report which found that new contracts for doctors are improving patient care.

However, Dr Dean Marshall, chairman of the BMA's Scottish general practitioners committee, as well as a GP in Dalkeith, warned that the "boom and bust" approach to funding general practice was a mistake.

Dr Marshall said: "The report is a timely reminder of the reasons why a new contract was required for general practice.

"GPs were struggling to manage an ever-growing workload, morale was at an all-time low and recruitment and retention was becoming a significant problem as one-in-four GPs was considering leaving the profession."

He added: "The new contract sought to resolve these issues, which helped to make general practice an attractive career option once again.

"I am pleased that this report has recognised the hard work and commitment of Scotland's GPs to deliver the new contract.

"Already patients are reaping the benefits."