28 October 2025
As part of our ongoing Primary Care Improvement Plan, we have launched Community Treatment and Care (CTAC) services in the Borders.
This new service is designed to provide faster access, reduce pressure on GP practices and make better use of local healthcare resources.
The most noticeable change for patients will be how they book appointments for these services. Patients will be asked to contact our dedicated Telephone Booking Hub or visit a Health Board Reception desk in their local health centre, instead of their GP practice reception, to schedule CTAC appointments when they have been advised by a healthcare professional that they need one.
CTAC services include the following routine treatments delivered by nurses and healthcare assistants, previously known as treatment room services:
- Blood tests
- Removal of sutures or staples after operations or injuries
- Wound care, including leg ulcers and post-surgical wounds
- Ear irrigation
- Injections
- Routine checks such as blood pressure monitoring or blood tests before annual reviews
- Other routine tests or services
Gareth Clinkscale, Director of Urgent Care, Community Services and Mental Health at NHS Borders said: “The introduction of Community Treatment and Care (CTAC) services is a key milestone in our ongoing work to improve access and streamline healthcare here in the Borders. It reflects our commitment to delivering person-centred care, in your local community.”
More information can be found here.