Border Telegraph | News | Patients could be asked to pay for parking at BGH

Monday, 8th September, 2008

Published: Wednesday, 7th May, 2008 12:00

Patients could be asked to pay for parking at BGH

By Ally McGilvray

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PATIENTS are missing appointments at the biggest hospital in the Borders because of a chronic shortage of parking spaces, it has been claimed.

Now visitors to Borders General Hospital, near Melrose, could be asked to pay for parking in future.

NHS Borders has confirmed it is reviewing its parking arrangements which are driving motorists round the bend.

It followed an emergency call to the health board to introduce a priority-parking scheme for out-patients, amid concerns that they were missing appointments because they were unable to find a space.

Local SNP MSP Christine Grahame said: “I am being contacted by BGH out-patients who are finding it increasingly difficult to park at the hospital due to the chronic parking shortages that exist.

“I know there have been some efforts by NHS Borders to increase parking but clearly the situation remains very difficult for patients trying to make their appointment.

“A priority parking scheme where out-patients displayed a permit, given to them with their appointment card and were allocated designated priority parking spaces, would be one solution to ensure that patients did not miss out on treatment. Such schemes do exist in other parts of Scotland and work well.”

She added: “There would need to be some administration and monitoring of the scheme, which would be aimed at ensuring that those people who must attend hospital for treatment are given priority, but I think the costs could be offset by savings made on missed appointments.”

The South of Scotland MSP blamed the health board’s decision to close the cottage hospitals at Jedburgh and Coldstream for exacerbating the parking problems, with many motorists parking on neighbouring roads, pavements and grass verges.

A spokesperson for NHS Borders said: “We are fully aware of the limitations and frustrations around car parking at the BGH and are currently undertaking a full review of car parking provision on the site and hope to be able to consider options in the summer.

“Ms Grahame's suggestion will be considered as part of that review. In the meantime we would continue to urge staff and patients to act responsibly in how they park their vehicles.”

Last month, Melrose and District Community Council heard talks were underway to encourage more hospital staff to leave their cars at home by creating a new walkway and cycle path, as well as improving lighting, in the area.

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