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Pilot projects at NHS 24
26/08/2009
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon will find out more about two pilot projects at NHS 24 - a British Sign Language (BSL) Breathing Space service and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) telephony service.
Ms Sturgeon's visit will take place shortly before she chairs the NHS 24 Annual Review. NHS 24 provides out of hours health care advice over the phone, assisting thousands of people every year.
The Breathing Space BSL internet service is due to launch shortly and will give BSL users access to Breathing Space counselling via secure webcam. Breathing Space offers support to people suffering from depression or feeling down.
The CBT service is being piloted in five health boards and is designed to offer better access to psychological therapies across Scotland, particularly in remote and rural areas.
Speaking in advance of her visit, Ms Sturgeon said:
"NHS 24 is an integral part of the NHS in Scotland, providing vital health care advice when doctors' surgeries are closed. In recent months, NHS 24 has also played a key role in Scotland's fight against pandemic flu.
"Many people have already used NHS 24 to access out of hours services - whether that is from a GP, emergency centre or late night community pharmacy.
"The new BSL and CBT services are examples of NHS 24 adopting an innovative approach to ensure that they can offer a wider range of services, tailored to meet the needs of more people."
Speaking about the NHS 24 Annual Review, Ms Sturgeon said:
"Our NHS should always strive to provide the best possible care, so holding those who manage our NHS boards to account in public is the right thing to do.
"This not only gives credit for the many successes, but helps to tackle tough issues and drive forward improvements. I hope people will take the opportunity to attend, ask questions and contribute their ideas to help shape the future of their NHS."
As in previous years, the annual review will include an opportunity for members of the public attending the review to ask questions.
NHS 24's Chairman, Allan Watson, said: "NHS 24 delivers a vital and valuable health advice and information service to the Scottish public. There have been many positive developments within NHS 24 in the last year, including the launch of the CBT and BSL pilots.
"We are committed to ensuring our service meets the needs of the people of Scotland and look forward to reflecting on our achievements and progress as part of the annual review."
The CBT service is being piloted in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, NHS Shetland, NHS Borders, NHS Western Isles and NHS Lothian.
Scotland has around 6,000 people whose first language is British Sign Language.