NHS GRAMPIAN FUNDING INCREASE IS EVIDENCE OF SNP HEALTH COMMITMENT

Alex Salmond MSP has said that news of an uplift in revenue and capital funding allocated to NHS Grampian in 2011/ 2012 is evidence of the SNP's continued commitment to creating a healthier Scotland and a healthier Gordon.

In response to a Parliamentary Question, Health Minister Nicola Sturgeon has revealed that £691.1 million of revenue and capital funding will be allocated to NHS Grampian in 2011-12 - an uplift of 3.8% from the previous year.

Health Boards across Scotland will share £8.584 billion in revenue funding which includes a £70 million Change Fund to integrate health and social care services. It also includes £488 million in capital funds to build major projects including Aberdeen’s new Emergency Care Centre.

Commenting on the figures Mr. Salmond said:

“This is welcome news for people in Gordon and these figures are evidence that the SNP is committed to protecting our life saving health service. The Scottish Government has protected the Health Service from Tory/Liberal cuts, providing an increase in revenue funding across Scotland’s health board s despite the difficult financial circumstances.

“The extra resources will allow NHS boards to deliver the level of patient care that is expected. Despite cuts to Scotland’s capital budget, the SNP is more determined than ever to make the NHS a priority and deliver the capital projects that will improve patient services. The new Emergency Care Centre will be a major boost to Aberdeen’s health services and benefit people across my constituency; integrating acute medical assessment with A&E and out-of-hours services.

“The continued policy to phase out prescription charges will also ensure that people in Gordon facing health difficulties will not be burdened by finances. Few things matter more than our NHS and I will continue to strive for the best possible healthcare for my constituents.”