SCOTTISH Health Secretary Neil Gray praised the "incredibly strong" work being carried out at East Lothian Community Hospital during a visit last week.

Mr Gray met with staff at the hospital in Haddington and discussed the work being undertaken to address delayed discharges.

Following his attendance at a 'daily activity huddle' with the team, he said: "The work that is being done here is incredibly strong, it’s robust.

"The processes are clearly in place.

"Not just in this hospital but basing themselves here and also having in reach into the other Lothian hospitals where East Lothian patients are currently staying.

"It is incredibly strong and I am very much reassured by the work that is being done here."

"I’ve just been part of the partnerships huddle, which was fantastic, being able to see the dedication, the professionalism, the knowledge and experience that is there around making sure that those patients who are currently in hospital are able to get home as quickly as possible."

Mr Gray’s visit comes as the Scottish Government launches its winter ‘healthcare awareness campaign'.

‘Right Care Right Place’ aims to ensure that people know the best place to access healthcare this winter – whether attending a hospital emergency department, contacting GP or pharmacy, calling NHS 24 on 111 or using self-help guides on the NHS Inform website.