Health Secretary hails 'extraordinary' NHS on 75th anniversary
The National Health Service was launched on July 5 1948
Health Secretary Michael Matheson is among those leading the praise for the NHS, as the service celebrates its 75th anniversary.
The NHS waslaunched by then health secretary Aneurin Bevan on July 5, 1948, with healthcare becoming free at the point of use, funded by the government.
Mr Matheson paid tribute to health service staff who, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic, he said have delivered "extraordinary service".
He said: "We are fortunate beyond words to have an NHS free at the point of need for every single one of us.
"On this day, the 75th anniversary of our NHS, I cannot express enough how grateful I am to the people who have delivered this extraordinary service through all these years.
Special praise for NHS staff who guided country through Covid
"Working in the NHS has not always been easy - particularly during the Covid pandemic, but along with their colleagues in social care, NHS staff worked in tremendously difficult circumstances to care for those who needed them. Together they saved countless lives and their contribution will never be forgotten.
"With the continued support of people across the country, and the unwavering dedication of NHS staff, I have no doubt the NHS will be celebrating many more anniversaries in the years to come."
Scottish Conservative health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane - who also works as an NHS GP - said: "As the NHS celebrates its 75th anniversary, I want to pay tribute to the incredible staff working on the front line and continuing to go the extra mile to support patients.
Service faces some of the biggest challenges in its existence
"It is a true privilege to work for our health service. However, there is no doubt that it is currently facing some of the biggest challenges in its existence.
"Many of these pre-date the Covid pandemic, due to the SNP's dire record on workforce planning and their mismanagement of frontline services during 16 years in office."
He went on to urge Mr Matheson to "rip up" the NHS recovery plan enacted by his predecessor - and current First Minister - Humza Yousaf, claiming it would be the "best birthday present" he could give the service.
SNP MP Dr Philippa Whitford, who is an NHS breast cancer surgeon, also said independence is key to protecting the NHS.
Independence 'key to protecting the NHS'
She said: "As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of NHS Scotland, it's essential that we face up to the damage of catastrophic Westminster policies - and the risk that remaining under Westminster control could prevent our NHS surviving another 75 years.
"Thirteen years of Tory austerity cuts and underfunding have harmed all four national health services in the UK, and meant services were under pressure even before the unprecedented challenge of the Covid pandemic.
"Brexit and the loss of freedom of movement have compounded the problems, with workforce shortages now the number one issue undermining all four healthcare systems."