The CMO’s annual report for 2024/2025 is now live.

Realistic Medicine – Critical Connections, is the CMO’s fifth annual report, and the ninth on Realistic Medicine. The overarching aim of Realistic Medicine is to deliver better value care for patients, and for our health and care system.

Chapter 1: Connection – This chapter highlights the central role of human connection in health and care. It argues that kindness, compassion, and relational continuity are not “extras” but essential elements that improve outcomes and experience. By strengthening relationships between professionals, patients, families, and communities, care becomes more personalised and meaningful.

Chapter 2: Healthy Ageing – With Scotland’s population growing older, the report explores how to help people age well rather than simply live longer. It emphasises prevention of frailty, supporting independence, and ensuring older people remain active participants in society. Examples show how health, social care, and community initiatives can reduce isolation and build resilience.

Chapter 3: Our Planet for Our Health – Climate change, air pollution, and biodiversity loss are presented as pressing health challenges. The chapter recognises that the health system contributes to environmental damage but also holds potential to lead on sustainability. Actions include reducing emissions, waste, and resource use while adapting services to protect people from climate-related risks.

Chapter 4: Our Place in Our Communities: Past, Present & Future – This chapter looks at how the places people live shape health and well-being. It describes how community connections, social infrastructure, and local services can empower people to live healthier lives. Learning from past approaches, it calls for stronger partnerships with communities to build fairer and more supportive environments.

Chapter 5: Health of the Nation – The closing chapter provides a picture of Scotland’s health today and the outlook for decades ahead. It outlines persistent inequalities and the projected rise in conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurological disorders. The message is clear: without stronger prevention and upstream action, these burdens will grow, widening the health gap further.