MSP’s anger over axeing of GP surgery at Twechar

Local MSP Rona Mackay has written to East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership (EDHSCP) to express her shock and disappointment at the proposal to axe the GP surgery in 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.

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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.

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“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 Heaslthy 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.”

The Herald has contacted NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and is awaiting a response.

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