Leading doctors are calling on the Scottish government to withdraw its plans to significantly reduce the number of health boards. BMA Scotland's new chairwoman, Dr Nora Murray-Cavanagh, stated that the proposal to cut the number of boards from 14 to two would be costly and time-consuming, without clear evidence of patient benefit.
First Minister John Swinney unveiled the plan a month ago as part of his Programme for Government, describing it as the "most significant structural reform of our NHS in the devolution era." The proposal aims to streamline management, reduce duplication, and free up resources for frontline care, directing more consistency in care across the country.
However, members of the British Medical Association's Scottish Council raised serious concerns and voted to oppose the plan during a meeting on Wednesday. Dr Murray-Cavanagh said the BMA wants the government to "withdraw and rethink its whole approach" and develop a more immediate way to help patients, stressing that while NHS reform is needed, the current proposals are not the right approach.
In response, Health Secretary Angela Constance defended the proposals, stating they focus on improving services and simplifying how people receive care by removing geographic and bureaucratic barriers. She added that detailed proposals would be supported by a full business case and include engagement with various groups, including NHS boards and staff representatives.