Fees offer as ex-doctors and midwives urged to join swine flu fight

Published on Sunday 4 October 2009 22:15

LABOUR health spokesman Dr Richard Simpson welcomed news that the Scottish Government would pay the fees for nurses and midwives who re-registered.

But he also stressed ministers "need to step-up preparations".

The government has promised to pay the fees for former nurses and midwives returning to work in the midst of the swine flu outbreak.

But Dr Simpson claimed a second wave of swine flu could see GPs dealing with more than 5,000 extra cases a week.

He said: "Earlier this year, I urged Nicola Sturgeon to ensure that there was a register of retired doctors and nurses who could be called upon if needed. The Scottish Government needs to ensure other organisations follow the example set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council."

The Nursing and Midwifery Council has already written to former members, urging them to renew their registration.

Ministers will cover the 76 registration fee for nurses and midwives, along with the 23 cost of a disclosure check.

Nicola Sturgeon said:

"The extra resource former nurses and midwives can provide if the pandemic worsens will be vital."