ELENA Whitham, SNP MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley, writes for the Chronicle.

After an incredibly busy and eventful summer, the colder months are upon us once again.

While this is an enjoyable time for many people, it also signals a challenging period for our NHS.

Winter is notorious for higher admissions to our A&E departments and other health services. This puts increasing pressure on doctors and nurses who work hard to deliver the very best care.

Earlier this year I chaired a roundtable meeting to discuss the delivery of health services in Girvan. This was attended by cross-party politicians, community councillors, and representatives from the Scottish Ambulance Service.

When it comes to protecting our NHS, we must work together across political divides. There is an agreement from all that our health services must meet the needs of our communities and must be specialised accordingly.

I am pleased to hear NHS Ayrshire and Arran is continuing to improve in certain areas. For example, we remain best in the country for urology.

However, there can be no doubt that we will be worried about admissions to A&E this winter.

I have written to the chief executive regarding this to request what plans are being put in place to clear ambulance waits at A&E departments and to communicate to the public what health service is most suitable for their needs.

This is where we all have a role to play. If we go to the service which can help us best, whether that be A&E, your GP, or your local pharmacy, we are spreading the demand. This will ensure that A&E is reserved for those who truly need urgent care.

I also welcome SNP Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, in calling for the UK Government to give more money to the NHS in the budget alongside modernisation. This will have knock on consequentials for NHS Scotland.

We need a fresh approach to how we protect our NHS and make it fit for purpose. This requires co-operative thinking across all levels.