The Scottish Government has given health boards £82.6m to bolster pharmacy support for repeat prescriptions and medication reviews in GP practices.

Ministers said the money, which has also been allocated for nursing support for routine tests and wound treatment and improved access to physiotherapy services, will ensure a range of healthcare professionals are based in every practice in Scotland.

“These measures will ensure patients can see the right healthcare expert at the right time while giving GPs more time with patients most in need of their skills and allowing doctors to focus on complex diagnosis, such as suspected cancer cases,” the Government said.

The funding is part of £360m the Government agreed to deliver to health boards under the 2018 GP contract over four years.

“GP surgeries provide a wide range of services, supporting both the physical and mental health of patients. The contribution general practice makes to the health and wellbeing of communities is invaluable. This funding will improve how general practice services are delivered and in turn enhance the patients’ experience of accessing care,” said health secretary Humza Yousaf.

“We have now delivered every penny we committed to health boards and GPs as part of our ongoing commitment to help support practices deliver care. The NHS is facing the biggest challenge this winter and this investment will have real benefits for both patients and front-line staff.”