ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the provision of health services in the Glasgow Eastern Area Renewal (GEAR) area and made comparisons with two other communities of comparable size, also in the Glasgow area – a peripheral, working-class estate of local authority housing (Drumchapel) and a prosperous owner-occupied suburb (Bearsden). It measures the accessibility of services in terms of time, distance and the choice available, contrasting different methods of transport. The Eastern District Health Council is the main bridge between the public and the Health Service. Since its inception in 1975 it has actively dealt with complaints and suggestions from members of the public and from voluntary and statutory organisations. Unfortunately, only a small proportion of local residents are aware of its existence. Community Councils also play a role in influencing decisions on local health care, for example on the provision of the Day Hospital for mental illness at Bridgeton.
