Lawyer expresses concerns over NHS Scotland's increasing use of cut-price doctors

As Head of Personal Injury for Irwin Mitchell in Scotland, I’ve been closely monitoring the troubling trend of NHS Scotland increasingly relying on cut-price doctors. 

Current approach

The safety of patients is of utmost priority, and the current approach of employing hundreds of Medical Associate Professionals (MAPs) to fill staffing gaps is deeply concerning. These MAPs, including Physician Associates, undergo only two years of training, which raises significant questions about patient safety.

The British Medical Association (BMA) has rightly demanded an immediate halt to the recruitment of MAPs until we can be certain that patient safety is not at risk. This approach could potentially create a two-tier health system, where the quality of care varies depending on the provider, which is unacceptable.

More comprehensive measures needed

To address the staffing crisis, the Scottish Government has offered a 5.5% pay increase to NHS workers, including doctors. While this is a positive step towards improving working conditions and retaining fully qualified medical professionals, it's clear that more comprehensive measures are needed.

A recent report has highlighted the financial strain on NHS doctors in Scotland, with some experiencing real term pay cuts of up to 28.6% over the years. This financial pressure is a significant factor contributing to the staffing shortages and the subsequent need to employ less-trained professionals.

Despite the controversy, NHS Scotland has been expanding the use of Physician Associates and other MAPs to cope with the increasing demands on healthcare services. Government-appointed experts argue that this expansion is necessary to ensure the sustainability of our healthcare system, especially given the ageing population and the backlog caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Safety and well-being of patients come first

As we navigate these challenging times, it's crucial to balance the immediate need for healthcare professionals with the long-term goal of maintaining high standards of patient care. The debate continues, but one thing remains clear: the safety and well-being of patients must always come first. 

If you feel your medical care has caused you or a loved one harm, then our specialist lawyers can support you and assess whether the care was negligent.