Managing current demand
As is the case with other General Practices and the wider NHS, we continue to be under significant pressure with an extremely high number of requests for care being received every day.
Our team is working hard to respond to all requests as quickly as possible, however, the national shortage of GPs is impacting on our ability to meet current demands.
The following temporary measures are necessary to prioritise the most urgent cases and manage current demand over the coming days.
Service availability – Monday 3 to Thursday 6 April 2023
- Due to the extremely high numbers of contacts, we are prioritising all new appointment requests for the most poorly patients with urgent health concerns.
- This will allow us to review and respond to all existing requests that have been received and prioritise care for patients that need us most.
- Any appointments that have already been confirmed will go ahead as planned.
- Patients who feel their need is urgent and cannot wait, can get in touch with the Practice on the phone or they can visit our reception in person to make their request.
- Patients with a request that is not urgent and can safely wait will be asked if they could kindly defer making their request until Tuesday 11 April 2023.
- Our aim is to minimise any potential delays, we do understand this situation may be frustrating for patients.
- Patients with a minor ailment will be encouraged to seek support from an alternative service to meet their needs such as their local community pharmacy or NHS 111 online or on the phone (dial 111). The Minor Eye Conditions Service is also available providing assessment and treatment for people with recently occurring minor eye problems.
- Patients can still use the askmyGP online service to request a statement of fitness to work (fit/sick note).
- If you would like to request a repeat prescription or have a question about your medication, you can visit our Prescriptions and Medicines Centre online.
Please be assured that this is a short-term arrangement in response to significant demand to allow us to prioritise the most clinically urgent cases.
We will be able to accept requests from patients with other health concerns or enquiries from Tuesday 11 April 2023.
Thank you for only using the A&E department for genuine life-threatening emergencies. NHS 111 can help if you need urgent medical help or you’re not sure what to do.
Thank you for your ongoing support, patience and kindness.
