GP Practice Manager guilty of embezzling funds from the Portree Medical Practice

Roslynne O'Connor worked as a practice manager at Portree Medical Centre between 2011 and 2019. During this time, she claimed fraudulent expenses, used the business credit card for her own purposes, and paid money to her own account.

The case was reported to Counter Fraud Services (CFS) for investigation. At the interview under caution, Ms O'Connor declined to comment, however she later pled guilty to three charges of embezzlement and fraud.

Ms O'Connor was convicted of two charges of fraud and one charge of embezzlement.

Sentence has been deferred to allow Ms O'Connor the opportunity to repay the monies to the practice.

Fraud, the consequences are not worth the risks.

Statement from Gordon Young, Head of Service, NHS Counter Fraud Services

The vast majority of NHS staff, including those who work in GP practices are honest, hardworking and skilled individuals who put their patients first.

When Roslynne O'Connor abused her trusted position by embezzling funds, she not only defrauded the GP Practice but she let down her colleagues and the Practice’s patients.

It is quite possible that, had she not been caught, the scale of the crime would have significantly damaged the Practice’s financial position.

NHS Highland has a zero tolerance to fraud by any employee or contractor.

Over the last two years, the NHS in Scotland has been under unprecedented pressure, with resources, particularly in Primary Care being stretched to the limit. Counter Fraud Services and our partners in the NHS work hard to ensure that these resources are protected and used as intended for patient care.

Today’s result shows the dedication of Counter Fraud Services’ Investigation Team bringing those who abuse their position within the NHS to justice. We are here to prevent and detect fraud and investigate those who commit fraud and will seek all forms of redress. We urge anyone who suspects someone of defrauding the NHS in Scotland to report them to us.

If you suspect fraud, bribery or corruption in NHS Scotland, report it.