Alexander Burnett MSP has written to NHS Grampian following the announcement that Kintore Medical Centre is cutting its opening hours over staff and financial shortages.
The Aberdeenshire West MSP, who represents Kintore, described the decision as “disastrous” for patients in the town and the surrounding area.
At present, the surgery is open from 8am until 6pm Monday to Friday. However, NHS Grampian has said that from Monday, April 7, the practice will close on Fridays, while opening times will be cut to 8am to 1pm on Wednesdays and 8am to midday on Thursdays.
It will mean anyone requiring an appointment outwith these times will now have to be seen at Inverurie Health Hub.
The announcement comes just a week after Udny Station GP surgery signalled its intention to close down completely.
Scottish Conservative MSP for Aberdeenshire West, Alexander Burnett, said: “This decision could have disastrous implications for Kintore residents and the surrounding area.
“The Scottish Government’s underfunding of NHS Grampian, coupled with the UK Government’s decision to increase employer National Insurance contributions, has contributed to these recruitment and financial difficulties.
“GPs and nurses are exhausted and are leaving rural areas because they have no confidence in the system improving.
“The push to centralise our NHS is forcing patients in Kintore to travel further for essential treatment which is completely unacceptable.
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“For a growing town like Kintore, it is already difficult for patients to see someone face-to-face, and this move will place extra pressure on Inverurie which is already battling huge waiting lists.
“I have now written to NHS Grampian to ask them if these measures are permanent, as well as the Scottish Government, urging ministers to take action to ensure Kintore can return to its normal opening hours.”
In its announcement, NHS Grampian said: “We understand that this change may cause inconvenience, and we sincerely apologise for any disruption this may cause. Please note that full services are available via the Inverurie Health Hub.”
