Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has today welcomed assurances from the Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership that minor injury and illness services will not be closing in Pitlochry.

The confirmation comes after recent media reports claimed that these services would be shut down before the end of 2019.

Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership have also confirmed that they will be engaging with local GPs, staff and members of the local community as they develop a Community Care and Treatment (CCAT) Hub to boost services already provided in the current Minor Injury and Illness Unit (MIIU).

There was also confirmation that, following recent opening hours changes, the Pitlochry Minor Injury and Illness Unit opening times will be extended again from April 1st.
During April, the MIIU will be open through the week, Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm and will reopen over the weekend between 9am to 9pm. 

Commenting, Mr Swinney said: 

“I am pleased that Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership have offered assurances over the future of services at Pitlochry Community Hospital. I also welcome the significant steps being taken to ensure that those across Highland Perthshire will continue to have access to quality, local healthcare. 

“It is regrettable that the coverage of these changes has caused significant worry to my constituents, many of whom rely upon the services provided by Pitlochry Community Hospital.  It is my hope that, following clarification directly from Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership, the actions being taken to safeguard and enhance health services in Highland Perthshire will be portrayed in a more positive manner.”