Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh.
Am Pàipear has learned that NHS Western Isles is considering re-locating Griminish Medical Practice and other health board staff currently based around the islands to Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh.
Plans to centralise the three existing dental practices in Lochboisdale, Liniclate and Lochmaddy at the hospital have already been announced, and are due to be discussed as part of a public consultation process.
Bringing the three dental practices, Benbecula surgery and other NHS staff together within the hospital are part of plans to create a “health hub” on the site, NHS Western Isles has said.
At this stage it remains unclear what has prompted the proposal to centralise services in Balivanich, or which spaces within Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh would be re-developed to accommodate the three dental clinics, GP surgery and additional staff.
Explaining the proposals as they stand, a spokesperson for NHS Western Isles told Am Pàipear: “A full range of options to make best use of the Ospadal Uibhist agus Bharraigh site in the future will be developed through a consultation process later this year.
“At this stage, NHS Western Isles is proposing that the options for consideration should include bringing Griminish Practice, dental services and staff at other locations on to the hospital site, to create a health hub.
“We look forward to discussing all potential options with the public and staff in the Uists later this year, so that they can give their views on how the site could be developed and improved, and where services in other locations should be located in future.
“The main consultation events will be a planning and strategy day for staff in September 2015, followed by a public event in Uist in November 2015.
“However, there will be a wide range of opportunities available in addition to these events for staff to provide their views.”
More on this story as it develops. If you have any views on the proposals, please contact Am Pàipear on 01970603299 or editor@ampaipear.org.uk