URGENT care is now available 24/7 at a Scottish island hospital following the tragic death of a woman in May.
Portree Hospital on Skye was subject to a thorough review following the death at the Skye Live festival, which saw Heather Aird take unwell outside the Portree Community Hospital, which stopped providing round-the-clock care in 2022.
In the wake of the incident, a review came about because of a campaign from residents and local MSP and Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes.
Forbes said: “Portree Hospital should be a place of safety, where locals and visitors know they can come and get appropriate help. It is a fantastic asset to have.
“I have been actively involved in pressing NHS Highland to fully implement the Sir Lewis Ritchie review for healthcare services on Skye for years now.
“Whilst some of the recommendations are still a work in progress, the resumption of access to 24/7 urgent care provision at Portree Hospital is a hugely important step forward.
“I am especially grateful for the efforts of existing staff on the ground, and I warmly congratulate all ANPs who have recently completed their training.
“I would also strongly encourage the health board to strengthen their partnership working with local campaigners. It is absolutely vital that everyone has confidence in accessible, resilient and urgent healthcare services.”
The change to round-the-clock care comes into effect as of Friday, August 16.
The Isle of Skye is home to roughly 10,000 people, but more than half a million vehicles drove over the Skye Bridge last year, according to Transport Scotland data. Some islanders estimate that the total number of tourists could be at least double that, stressing the importance of increased medical provisions on the island.
The improvements include the implementation of a team of advanced nurse practitioners as well as an increase in Scottish Ambulance Service staff in the area.
The independent review was carried out by Sir Lewis Ritchie back in 2018.
