From Jan 6th 2025, we are changing our appointments process.
Having listened to patient feedback we have been training our team in care navigation with the help of NHS England.
Therefore, if your medical need is of a routine nature, you will be offered an appropriate pre-bookable appointment. Our clinics have been fully amended to offer appointments usually within 72 hours.
We are fortunate to have an extended access hub located at Charnwood Surgery which we can also offer appointments at, usually on weekends which has had huge benefits particularly for working aged patients.
The main message we have received whilst reviewing access is the annoyance and frustration of having to telephone at 8am and be on hold for variable lengths of time. This will no longer be necessary as appointments will be available throughout the week, meaning patients can call at any time throughout the day.
Please be reminded that the surgery is NOT a walk-in centre and will not be able to see patients presenting at the reception for an immediate appointment.
For health matters of a more urgent nature ie) requiring on the day assessment, a same day appointment will be offered whilst we remain within safe clinical capacity, for these appointments we do encourage ringing at 8am.
Once our safe clinical capacity has been exceeded you may be signposted to an alternative option e.g.) walk in centre or NHS 111.
Information on safe clinical capacity may be found here: Safe working in general practice toolkit
This change will be reviewed from go live and necessary amendments made when required.
As a team we are excited about what we feel is a positive change in the way we can offer access to health care.
Your support is much appreciated, and we encourage feedback for our continued development and improvement.
Yours sincerely
Barrow Health Centre
