SDLP MLAs will call for the development of a new medical school in the North West in the Assembly today.
Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA said there was demonstrable need for a new school to deliver enhanced primary care and address longstanding workforce issues in trusts across the North.
He said: “The SDLP is proposing the development of a medical school in the North West to address long standing workforce issues, to enhance primary care provision West of the Bann and as a kick-start for the expansion of Magee campus of Ulster University.
“It makes sense economically, for our health service and for communities here which for too long have seen our young, talented students forced abroad for training or work.
“Our health service faces real challenges relating to the retention of staff, particularly in rural communities.
“Offering training and ongoing support for frontline health service workers closer to the communities most in need is a critical step if we’re to really tackle health inequalities across the North.
“The focus of the school should be on primary care, key to achieving the vision outlined by professor Bengoa and relieving pressure on our acute services.
“This proposal will also support the campaign to spread regional investment across the North as well as acting as a kick-start for the expansion of the Magee campus of Ulster University.
“It achieves so many of the goals that we must all be aiming for if we’re to transform this region.
“I hope other parties will support the SDLP to make the proposal a reality,” added the Foyle MLA.
