The new GP contract that was agreed between the Scottish Government and BMA Scotland has faced criticism over its lack of “rural proofing”, say Argyll constituents.

Various residents have been in contact with Highlands and Islands MSP, Donald Cameron, to highlight their worries over the contract, saying that little to no consultation has been carried out with rural GP practices and rural communities.

Donald met several constituents in Oban on Friday and discussed their concerns.

These criticisms follow on from the figures produced by the Rural GP Association of Scotland which suggest that practices across the Highlands and Islands could face significant cuts to their budgets.

Donald Cameron MSP said:

“The SNP are leaving rural communities in the dark over the potential issues that may arise as a result of the new GP contract.

Many people have been in touch with me over the last month, and I met some in Oban last week to discuss their justifiable concerns face to face. They are worried and anxious that the new contract may see irreparable damage done to GP practices and the local communities they serve.

I will be writing to the Health Secretary to seek assurances that no rural GP practice will see their budget cut, and also to find out what “rural-proofing” the SNP Government have carried out when determining the new contract.”