Scientists from the Aberdeen University are looking for people who live in the rural NHS Grampian area to give their views on accessing and receiving healthcare.
The team of researchers from the institute of applied health sciences is looking at how healthcare was delivered in rural areas before the pandemic and want to find out how it has affected these communities.
Dr Andrew Maclaren from the health services research unit, who is leading the project, explains: “Rural areas face multiple challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare.
“Dispersed populations, difficulties in the recruitment and retention of medical professionals, problems with internet connectivity, and longer distances to health centres are a few of the unique issues that remote healthcare providers face.
“With this project we hope to hear from individuals who face these challenges so we can improve services in the future.”
NHS Grampian recently said it was near breaking point as Covid cases hit a record high.
A study has found 90% of NHS Grampian staff are stressed and 81% feel their wellbeing is worse than pre-pandemic.
This will all have an effect on the quality of healthcare at NHS Grampian. Last October Aberdeen A&E had the longest wait time on record.
An important study for improving health care
Dr Maclaren said: “The pandemic meant lots of changes were made in the way healthcare appointments were provided and we want to explore the public’s perspectives on accessing and receiving healthcare in rural areas across Grampian pre and post-pandemic.
“For example, we want to hear about the issues that healthcare providers should be aware of, what are the problems in accessing healthcare in rural places, and of course, how the pandemic has changed access to healthcare.”
The NHS Grampian funded project is driven by the Scottish Government’s pledge to provide appropriate healthcare provision for people in remote and rural areas.
Dr Maclaren added: “We hope that by gathering these insights from the people that use the services, the service delivery will be improved and any disparities between the health of those who live in urban and rural communities can be addressed.”
Individuals can comment on the online blog on this link. If you are interested in being interviewed, or would like more information, contact Dr Andrew Maclaren at andrew.maclaren@abdn.ac.uk.
