Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has backed a campaign to encourage people with urgent health issues to seek treatment.
The Scottish Government’s “NHS is Open” campaign is urging anyone with urgent health worries not to ignore the problem and to contact their GP or local hospital.
The Conservative MSP says he is concerned those with potentially life-threatening conditions may not be seeking expert advice when symptoms occur.
He said: “There are widespread reports that the number of people with non-COVID related conditions applying for a GP consultation have dropped very sharply.
“While the instinct to avoid putting pressure on the NHS at this time is understandable, the last thing our doctors would wish for is for people to take risks with their health and ignore obvious symptoms.
“So if you have a suspicious lump, or any other condition that you feel would benefit from a consultation, please do contact your local health centre, many of which are now conducting consultations either virtually or over the phone.
“They may be able to put your mind at rest or, if you do need to be referred, ensure further treatment can be undertaken as soon as possible.
“Either way, please don’t delay. If you have a non-COVID related health issue which is worrying you, don’t ignore it”.
