Health minister opens Uist endoscopy unit 2/7/08

Uist and Barra Hospital's £500,000 endoscopy suite was officially opened by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon on Tuesday.

Around 150 endoscopy procedures are carried out at the hospital each year and the new suite will increase capacity, helping to take some of the pressure off the unit at the Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway.

Ms Sturgeon, who covered a two-day visit to Barra and Benbecula, said:"Access to health services is often something we take for granted. But in more remote parts of Scotland, treatment or diagnosis can often involve a lengthy journey.

"That is why I am pleased to open the endoscopy suite as I know the improved facilities will be greatly valued by both staff and patients and also secure endoscopy services locally.

"We recognise the challenges associated with delivering healthcare in rural communities and are committed to ensuring access to healthcare is as local as possible for everyone in Scotland.

"The Uist and Barra Hospital is an excellent example of GP-led medical care and the endoscopy suite will only enhance that further."

During her visit to the Southern Isles, Ms Sturgeon also visited a number of other health services, including the North Uist Medical Practice, Lochmaddy; Griminish Medical Practice, Benbecula;