McArthur encourages students returning to Orkney to register as a temporary resident with GP

Orkney's MSP Liam McArthur has today encouraged any students planning to return home to Orkney during the holidays to consider registering as a 'temporary resident' with their previous GP practice.  

This follows a report shared with Mr McArthur from a constituent whose child needed to attend an appointment at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary while they were back at home in Orkney over the summer. Because the student was registered with GP practice on the Scottish mainland, NHS Orkney was unable to cover the travel costs.  

In response to representations made by Mr McArthur, NHS Orkney have confirmed that students are able to register as a temporary resident with a local GP practice, which would allow them to access treatment on a temporary basis without having to change their permanent registration.  

In the event that treatment was then required that could not be provided in Orkney, the GP practice could discuss the circumstances with NHS Orkney so that the appropriate arrangements can be considered. NHS Orkney would look at travel expenses on case-by-case basis and take a pragmatic patient centred approach that recognises the unique circumstances of students from islands.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:  

"Many Orkney students choose to return home for the holidays, which over the summer can run to many weeks. During that time, dealing with pre-existing conditions that need managed or health issues that arise can be difficult where the student is registered with a GP practice south.    

"Indeed, in such circumstances where the necessary treatment can’t be provided in Orkney, a student and their family can find themselves facing significant costs for travel and accommodation.  

"It's important, therefore, that students and families are aware of the option to register as a ‘temporary resident’ with a local GP practice. As well as ensuring access to GP care this can increase the scope for seeking support with travel and accommodation should more specialist treatment be required.  Hopefully, by raising awareness of this issue more Orkney students will be able to make arrangements that best meet their health needs in future."