The South Uist medical practice is to cease providing out-
From August 1st, the service will be provided via NHS24.
Dr Stephen Bird is the sole GP covering the area and tries to find a locum to allow himself some time off.
In addition to working normal surgery hours, he has been attending urgent calls from patients in the evening, overnight and weekends.
Changes mean patient requiring medical advice during the these times should contact NHS24 on 111.
Dr Bird said the "difficulty in securing sufficient locum cover, especially at short notice" forced the change.
He said: "After considerable discussion with the Western Isles Health Board, the
only sustainable long-
Dr Bird said he is "determined to remain as available as possible to the patients of South Uist Medical."
He said he will "continue to work with the ambulance service for emergencies and
will be a part of the Uists and Benbecula out-
The NHS is running will be a trial of NHS24 cover this and next weekend.
The last weekend in July is also a test run while the official permanent change-
Out-
25 June 2016