Gordie, that view is because you don't understand the role of an HV. HVs have three years' training to be a nurse, then an extra year to become an HV. The NHS doesn't just pick them off the street. Doctors, on the other hand, study for at least seven years to become medical professionals - to work in the hospitals and GP practices. There is a shortage of doctors in many areas. Many tasks which can perfectly compentently be assessed by a skilled nurse no longer have to be done by a doctor, doctors can far better be using their time in direct patient care, not this sort of paperwork. I would rather be assessed by a skilled local healthcare professional than by a doctor whose time is limited, who might not even know me. HVs understand all the implications of social housing, demographics etc - they're out on the patch all the time.