PREMIUM
Dr Gordon Baird (inset) has been campaigning for better rural healthcare services for years, and believes an independent commissioner could ensure decisions on services are fairer
RURAL medics have backed a petition calling for an Australian-style commissioner to advocate for patients in more remote parts of Scotland.
In submissions to MSPs they argue that general practice has been disadvantaged by a "bizarre" funding formula, and criticise cuts to local services and "arduous journeys" for cancer treatment or childbirth.
The petition, due to be discussed at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, has been lodged by retired GP Dr Gordon Baird on behalf of the Galloway Community Hospital Action Trust.