Our Appointment System
How are practices working now?
We are now offering our patients the choice of a telephone or face-to-face appointment.
We appreciate that a telephone appointment will remain the first choice for many patients to allow a GP or Advanced Nurse Practitioner to triage your needs and action as appropriate. Following a telephone appointment you may be called to attend in person depending on the outcome of the triage process.
Please be aware that demand for all appointments remains high and we are still experiencing a high level of sickness absence due to the Covid pandemic.
We are committed to continuing the Covid vaccination action programme during Spring for our most vulnerable patients.
The pandemic is not over. GP practices worked hard to provide a service throughout lockdown and continue to do so. To protect everyone, we must maintain safe infection control and minimise unnecessary physical contact.
Please be patient
Our health services are under enormous pressure, but we are open and here if needed. We are experiencing unprecedented demand in line with all areas of the NHS – please do allow us to work safely and effectively during this period. Your support is vital to GPs, Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Nurses and Health Care Assistants and all our staff wanting to help you
I wanted to see my GP, so why am I seeing someone else?
Many GP practices now include a range of professionals (e.g. advanced nurse practitioners) who can diagnose and treat health conditions. This ensures that you see the right person at the right time more quickly.
Why do receptionists ask personal questions?
GP reception staff are a vital part of the health care team and ask questions to direct you to the best support and the most appropriate appointment. They are skilled in assisting with appointment triage and treat all information confidentially.
What about emergencies?
Always dial 999 in a life-threatening emergency. If you need help with minor injuries at any time or urgent care when your GP practice or community pharmacy is closed visit http://111.nhs.uk or dial 111 if you do not have internet access.
Where else can I get help?
Visit http://www.nhs.uk for advice on common symptoms and a list of local services or speak to your community pharmacist first for advice on minor illnesses. Find your nearest at http://nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-pharmacy/
