NHS Grampian bosses have been accused of focusing too much on Aberdeen services to the detriment of Moray.
The row comes after NHS management travelled to Elgin yesterday to meet staff over concerns the maternity unit at Dr Gray’s Hospital might have to be temporarily downgraded.
Last night, the health service insisted all efforts were being made to recruit the necessary two junior doctors before the end of the month to avoid the prospect of mothers-to-be having to travel to Aberdeen or Inverness to give birth.
Yet, after meeting midwives, Moray MSP Richard Lochhead explained the picture remained “grim” despite the urgent work being done by the NHS.
He said: “Clearly, we face an anxious week or two where the situation will become clearer – the community will certainly not accept a long-term downgrade of services in Moray.
“Any lack of effort to recruit the necessary staff, or put in place other options, will reinforce the suspicion that too many decisions over the future of Dr Gray’s are being taken in Aberdeen by management – and there is too much focus on the needs of the city rather than Moray.”
The shortage of staff in the paediatric, obstetrics and gynaecology services at the hospital has happened because of a shortage of new trainee doctor applicants.
The NHS has explained that a range of temporary proposals are currently under consideration and no decisions have been taken yet.
Moray MP, Douglas Ross, added: “The next week will be crucial while we wait to see if enough junior doctors can be recruited – that’s why I’ll be seeking an update by the end of next week.”
Yesterday, Moray Chamber of Commerce pledged to do all it could to help the NHS solve its current recruitment headache.
A spokeswoman said: “Enticing junior doctors to the region is important and we are passionate about sharing what a fantastic area Moray is to live and work.
“Moray Chamber of Commerce is happy to assist the NHS in any way that they can.”
The Royal College of Midwives added: “We have been advised by concerned midwife members from Dr Gray’s on the proposed changes to maternity service in Moray.
“We’ll work proactively with our members and NHS Grampian managers to ensure the quality of services remains high and our members’ working conditions and jobs are protected.”