Scotland’s chief medical officer last visited crisis-hit Aberdeen Royal Infirmary three years ago in what has been described as a “dereliction of duty” ahead of another looming winter crisis.
Information released by the Scottish Government shows Professor Gregor Smith last travelled to the North East’s largest hospital in December 2022.
Since then, he has failed to visit Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, despite the health board escalating to stage four – the second highest level of risk – due to serious concerns over its financial position, leadership, and governance.
During his tenure, he has never visited Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin – NHS Grampian’s second largest health facility.
That is despite NHS Grampian being more than £90 million in debt, as well as facing spiralling waiting times and rising levels of staff absences.
Nationally, Mr Smith has only made six visits to hospitals across Scotland since being appointed to the top role in December 2020 following Catherine Calderwood’s resignation after breaking lockdown rules.
Scottish Conservative North East MSP Liam Kerr said: “Patients will be shocked and angered that Scotland’s chief medical officer has only visited the North East once, and only made five other visits to hospitals across the country since he was appointed.
“At a time when NHS Grampian is crippled with debt and has been placed on life support, it’s appalling that Gregor Smith hasn’t stepped foot in ARI for three years.
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“With another winter crisis looming, Gregor Smith should be on the wards, listening to patients and staff – not hiding away from the difficulties that NHS boards are facing.
“This is a dereliction of duty and yet more evidence that the Scottish Government has taken its eye off the ball.
“Serious questions must be asked as to why the chief medical officer hasn’t bothered to visit these hospitals recently, including ARI, to see for himself, the challenges faced on the frontline, ahead of another difficult winter for staff.”
