More see a GP within 48 hour target

MORE patients in the NHS Lothian area are getting to see their GP within 48 hours, new figures have revealed.

The government figures, compiled from the 2009/10 GP Patient Experience Survey, showed that 94.5 per cent of patients in Lothian were able to obtain 48-hour access in the last year, while 83.8 per cent were able to obtain an appointment more than two days in advance.

This compares with 89.6 per cent and 74.4 per cent respectively in the previous year.

The figures were welcomed by Lothians MSP and former GP Dr Ian McKee, who said: "It's great to see so many of my former colleagues offering more accessible care to patients.

"Over the period of just one year, GP accessibility in the Lothian health board has increased significantly.

"The survey shows that GP access in NHS Lothian and throughout Scotland is improving considerably and I congratulate the health board and GPs for working towards ambitious targets. Patients expect to be seen by a GP no later than 48 hours."