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Carolyn Chew-Graham, a GP and professor of general practice research at Keele University, says those who are acutely unwell will be picked up quickly by crisis teams but those with "less florid manic episodes" can miss out on referral to specialists for diagnosis.

Five years ago, Steel City General Practice analysed the data for 10,000 of their patients who needed the most help.

The Scottish government says it is taking steps to provide additional resources to general practice.

Dr McCarthy, 38, initially specialised in obstetrics and gynaecology before choosing a career in general practice.

The proportion of the Scottish health budget allocated to general practice has fallen from 11% in 2004 to 6.5% last year.