I’m husband to Punam and dad to our 2 young children who keep us on our toes ! We live in Glasgow, a fantastic city where I’ve worked in hospital surgical departments, A&E and as a GP since moving here in 2015. I’ve also been fortunate to serve as the team doctor for Queen’s Park FC, utilising my interest in Sports Medicine, working with players and non- playing staff alike. In total, across the UK, I have been an NHS doctor for 15 years.

 

You’ll be the judge, but I believe I have a firm grasp of the profound challenges facing our healthcare system, and the difficulties faced by patients during the current pandemic and beyond. I am passionate about improving the health and well-being of Glaswegians and Scotland at large. Each week I meet with constituents and key stakeholders from across the country including community groups, small and large businesses, universities, campaigners.

In order to challenge and influence healthcare policy and decision making, in May 2021 I stood in the Scottish Parliament elections as a candidate for the Scottish Conservatives. I was returned as MSP for the Glasgow Region and am Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care. I am the first Hindu and first male of Indian descent to be elected to the Scottish Parliament.

 

It’s reasonable for people to ask, ”How can you be a GP and an MSP and do both jobs

properly ?” For sure, time management is challenging – and then there’s balancing the needs of a young family. But, believe me, my one day per week caring for patients as a GP makes me a better MSP. I see and feel the needs of my fellow Glaswegians through the lens of a doctor. So when I’m trying to influence government, I’m confident that I know what I’m talking about – and can push for change that’s aimed to improve healthcare for Scotland’s 5.5 million people, far more than I could ever see in my GP clinic over my lifetime.

 

Thank you for your interest in my work – and your most welcome to follow me via social media.