Press release: Boards must receive full backing implementing sexual health strategy

16 Jun 2005

The Scottish NHS Confederation has reiterated its call to the Scottish Executive to give NHS boards their full, unequivocal backing in implementing the sexual health strategy ahead of an Executive debate in the Scottish Parliament today.

Scottish NHS Confederation Director Hilary Robertson said: "When the Scottish Executive published its sexual health strategy in January 2005, The Confederation appealed to the Executive for full, unequivocal backing for NHS boards in the practical implementation of sexual health policies. Sexual health is often an unpopular destination for NHS resources in the eyes of the public, the media and some interest groups.  Local NHS systems must be confident that they will receive the full backing of the Scottish Executive for funding decisions designed to implement the action points set out in the strategy."

Ms Robertson concluded: "We welcome today's debate on the strategy.  The emphasis on national leadership for this strategy is extremely important.  The Scottish Ministers and the Health Department must be prepared to send a strong public message that high-quality sexual health services that meet the needs of the whole population are not only a valid, but an essential use of NHS resources.  A national policy commitment to achieving excellence in sexual health care helps to reinforce the public health message that individuals must be aware of and take responsibility for their own and their partners' sexual health."

Ends

 

Notes for editors

1. The Scottish NHS Confederation is an independent membership body representing Scotland's NHS boards and special health boards. We are committed to improving health policy and practice.

Contact details

For further information contact: Donald Crichton on 07775582123

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