The Scottish first minister has set out plans for a major increase in NHS capacity.

Scots are set to have better access to NHS treatment through expanded primary care services, enhanced use of digital innovations and a range of other measures.

Alongside health secretary Neil Gray, first minister John Swinney announced 150,000 additional appointments and procedures per year.

The plans for new digital innovations include the roll out of a Scottish health and social care app.

Swinney said: “Protecting, strengthening, renewing our National Health Service – that is a goal I think we can all get behind. A real focus of common purpose.

“That requires action from me, as First Minister, from my Health Secretary Neil Gray, and from my Government. We can offer the leadership and direction – as the measures outlined today seek to do.

“So, today, we commit to a substantial increase in capacity in order to significantly reduce people’s waits.

“Our plan will ensure that a greater proportion of new NHS funding goes to primary and community care. GPs and services in the community will have the resources they need to play a greater role in our health system."

Commenting on where the money will be spent, he added: "This increased investment will result in GP services that are easier for people to access. That is important in terms of people’s confidence in the health service – but equally, it will make it more likely that health issues are picked up quickly and dealt with earlier.

“Our National Health Service is there when we need it. No other public institution supports us with so much care through life’s biggest moments. We must support it in return.

“The approach I set out today charts our course to do that. It addresses both the challenges and the opportunities. It sets the NHS on a path of modernisation and renewal.”