Scot Med J
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The changes to out of hours care provided by General Practitioners have led to wide variation in the types and costs of out of hours care across the country. ⋯ There are wide variations in the costs of operating GP out of hours services, It is likely that the context in which organisations were set up and local geography infuence variations in costs, as well as the level of GP cover.
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UK consultants have reported working long hours, increased stress and reduced morale. This study set out to elicit consultants' views on flexible working and to gather data on consultants' workloads, remuneration, job satisfaction and retirement plans. As such it is the first comprehensive study of consultants in NHS Scotland. ⋯ In 2003, a majority of consultants in the UK voted in favour of the new consultant contract. This will improve consultant pay and introduce a standard 40-hour working week, including worked on-call. This should address tow of the main areas of consultant dissatisfaction in NHS Scotland. However, staff shortages will require to be addressed if the contract is to be successfully implemented.