MSP’s anger over axeing of GP surgery at Twechar

Woodhead Medical Practice wish to withdraw their weekly service from Twechar Healthy Living Centre from the end of November this year.

Ms Mackay says she has written written to East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership (EDHSCP) on behalf of the many residents who have contacted her to say they feel abandoned by the loss of this vital service.

She said: “Many have told me that the journey to Kirkintilloch can be fraught on public transport due to the difficulties of the bus service, with restrictions on the number of wheelchair users and young parents with buggies who can travel at one time.

“The inconvenience of having to do this when patients are feeling unwell is totally unacceptable.

“Some residents have told me that having the GP service was one positive thing about living in a rural area, which we know suffers from a lack of amenities. This will only make the situation worse.

“The broadband coverage and reception in the village is poor, to the extent that even 4G cannot be accessed on mobiles. This would make virtual surgeries and appointments extremely difficult and at times non-existent.

“The Health Board has a statutory duty to provide accessible health care in every area. This proposal would be a dereliction of that duty and I am asking that if it goes ahead, a replacement service must to put in place with another practice if necessary. It is absolutely vital that this happens.

Local Councillor Stewart MacDonald has also expressed his shock and has vowed to fight the closure of the surgery.

He said: “As a local councillor I stand against this. The GP outreach surgery began following a hard won campaign by local residents.

“Its closure is deeply alarming as it could impact on the local pharmacy, will reduce contact with residents and the Healthy Living Centre which may be able to offer them additional benefits, and, due to the lack of timetabled buses to Kirkintilloch, will make it harder for Twechar residents to get GP appointments - especially those who rely on wheelchairs. I intend to fight this.”

A spokesperson for NHSGGC said: “NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is committed to the provision of a GP service for patients living in the Twechar area.

“Unfortunately the Woodhead Medical Practice Twechar satellite site, which offered one half day service per week, has no dedicated waiting room or appropriate clinical room, which poses a number of challenges in light of COVID-19 and social distancing.

“Further long-term staffing issues relating to health and safety and lone working means that a consultation has been opened regarding the potential consolidation of that site with the nearby Woodhead Medical Practice in Kirkintilloch.

“The well-equipped Kirkintilloch surgery – which already serves all Twechar patients – can provide the full range of services required, which the satellite practice is unable to do.

“Those who are unable to make use of telephone consultations, or Near Me for video consultations, and who need to be seen face-to-face, can receive the care they require from the Kirkintilloch site.

“For those facing significant transport challenges, our patient transport service is in full operation and can take those patients to-and-from their appointments if required.

“No final decision will be made until due consultation has taken place and we will work closely with MPs, MSPs, councillors, and local community groups to ensure their voices are heard, and any questions are answered.”