Scotland's First Minister John Swinney (SNP) has unveiled plans for a network of walk-in GP centres at the SNP conference in Aberdeen. The ambitious healthcare initiative aims to revolutionise how Scots access primary care services.
The policy will tackle the notorious "8am rush" where patients desperately call GP practices hoping to secure an appointment. Swinney promised the new system would make healthcare access far more convenient for Scottish families.
The network will begin with 15 centres across Scotland, with the first facility opening "within the year". The centres represent a significant expansion of Scotland's primary healthcare infrastructure.
Service details and accessibility
Each centre will be staffed by qualified GPs and nurses, operating seven days a week from noon to 8pm. The extended hours are designed to fit around working patterns and family commitments.
Swinney told delegates: "We want to make it easier for you to see a GP - where and when it works for you. That is why I can announce today that this SNP Government will open a nationwide network of walk-in GP services."
The centres will be strategically located "based in your community, on your local high street, near your child's school, or close to your workplace". Swinney emphasised they would "break from the status quo" and "add to the care we already value".
Expansion plans and election promises
The First Minister described the initial 15 sites as "just the start" of a broader expansion. The centres will collectively "deliver over 1,000,000 additional GP and nurse appointments" to ease pressure on existing services.
Swinney positioned the healthcare announcement within his broader election strategy, seeking a "personal mandate" from Scottish voters in next year's Holyrood election. He described his party as "Scotland's true radicals" committed to fundamental transformation.
Social care workforce initiative
Alongside the GP centres, Swinney announced the Scottish Government would become visa sponsors for social care workers. The initiative aims to address staffing shortages by bringing "hundreds of dedicated workers" who can "start work immediately" in Scotland's care homes.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
