Foreword
Celebrating 60 years of the NHS is a good time for Scotland's medical profession to reflect back on its many achievements but also to look forward to future opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Over the last 60 years, we have witnessed huge changes in health needs, in scientific knowledge, and the ability to diagnose, to treat and to prevent ill health.
We live in a time of ever rapid change and increasing complexity. One in which the role of doctors and medical professionalism is being widely scrutinised. In recent years, there have been significant challenges, including new contracts for many staff working in the NHS, implementation of a new medical training structure, and the planning of robust health services that address the needs and wellbeing of the Scottish people.
In order to provide an assessment of the state of Scottish medicine in the 60 th anniversary year of the NHS, a series of questions were circulated to all Medical Specialty Advisers. The responses were collated and are presented here as a summary report of their views of progress achieved, challenges to be resolved and future aspirations for NHS Scotland.
Overall, the report provides an optimistic view, as seen through the eyes of our Specialty Advisers. There is a strong commitment to medical education and training; to a vibrant research infrastructure; an evidence-based approach to developing policy and delivering patient care; and to optimal team and partnership based working practices. All of these are seen to be key drivers to providing high quality, health services, with doctors playing a pivotal role.
For the future there is a desire to celebrate success, both by individuals and service teams. There is a strong belief in the role of medical professionals as champions for improved health and better health services, and enduring commitment to training the next generation of doctors. To promote professionalism and excellence in medicine, there is recognition of the role of senior medical leaders, a call to formalise training for consultants and general practitioners in leadership skills, and the desire to strengthen the roles of the medical profession in management.
The picture painted by Scottish Medical Specialty Advisers is positive and encouraging: of a developing and improving NHS - recognising the significant challenges ahead - and a steadfast commitment to the founding principles of the NHS and its future development.
Dr Harry Burns
Chief Medical Officer
September 2008