GP Services

Patients to have say in improving GP services
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People in Medway have received a new questionnaire asking for their views about family doctor services.
The country-wide survey, which is being carried out for the Department of Health, gives patients registered with a surgery the opportunity to have their say about the services they receive.
Last year’s questionnaire highlighted that patients wanted more appointment slots with GPs at times that suited them.
The NHS listened and acted and as a result of last year’s questionnaire, NHS Medway worked with GPs to increase the number of appointments at convenient times for residents.
Across Medway 81 per cent of practices now offer patients early, late or weekend appointments - well above the national average.
This is the third year running that the Department of Health has organised the survey.
The survey now includes more questions to find out if GP practices are getting the basics right for their patients - whether patients find receptionists helpful, have the option of telephone consultations, feel their problem is understood and how they rate the overall care they receive. Patients are also asked to rate local out-of-hours care to ensure healthcare is easily accessible when patients need it.
To have your say it’s important Ipsos MORI receive the completed questionnaires by Monday, 13 April.
For further information please contact Emma Burns on 01634 332092, 07939 235402 or at emma.burns@nhs.net; or Caroline Chick on 01634 338457 or at caroline.chick@medway.gov.uk.
NHS Medway is the new name for Medway Primary Care Trust.
We pay for all NHS healthcare for everyone who lives in Medway.
We want to make sure the right care is there when you need it, and to help you improve your health.
Did you know that: · Hospital waiting lists are shorter than ever before and still falling? · You now have a choice of hospital and specialist for most conditions? · It is easier to see GPs and NHS dentists in Medway than ever before?
Your views and experiences can help us improve further. If you would like to get involved and work in partnership with us to shape services and be part of the future of your local NHS, we would love to hear from you.
Please contact:
Kim Eaglestone, Head of Patient Carer and Public Involvement NHS Medway, 7–8 Ambley Green, Gillingham Business Park, Gillingham, Kent ME8 0NJ Tel: 01634 382771
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posted by pat