Shetland MSP Tavish Scott has criticised the local health board’s “inaction” after it was confirmed that the island of Bressay will be without a resident nurse this winter.
NHS Shetland confirmed that the island has been without access to immediate care since October when its resident nurse left for a new job.
However, the vacant post will only be advertised in January, meaning that the successful candidate is line to start the role in the spring.
Mr Scott, who hails from Bressay, said NHS Shetland have let the island down after he was previously told the post would be advertised in November.
He said: “NHS Shetland have not been straight with Bressay people. We are now left through the winter months depending on the skills of the Bressay ferry crew for emergencies and without a nurse living in the island.
“People already have experience of phoning NHS call centres to be asked where Bressay is? I am very concerned that the inaction of NHS Shetland has left islanders facing a worrying winter.
“Many people are very worried by this especially the elderly. I could live with being told the truth in October when our previous excellent nurse left for a new job. But the NHS have not been straight with me or the people of Bressay. I do not find that acceptable.”
The MSP met NHS Shetland chief executive Ralph Roberts on Tuesday for an update on the situation.
A spokesman for NHS Shetland said: “NHS Shetland remains committed to providing a district nursing service to the island of Bressay and is expecting to advertise the vacant post in January 2017.
“The new post-holder will provide advanced nursing skills into the intermediate care team, whilst also being expected to reside on Bressay and thus provide nursing care to meet the needs of the community as well as being available to provide resident overnight cover.”
District nursing services are being provided on a visiting basis, 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday by the Lerwick District Nursing team.
Islanders can contact the nurse on on 01595 743093. An answerphone system is in place and messages are picked up throughout the working day.
Outside working hours they can contact NHS 24 on 111.
