Mixed report for GPs (From Watford Observer)

Mixed report for GPs

3:00pm Friday 1st August 2008

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Doctors’ surgeries have received a mixed report in an NHS-commissioned patient survey.

Between January and April, 1,200 patients living within the boundaries of the West Hertfordshire Primary Care Trust were sent a nationwide survey by the Healthcare Commission asking for their thoughts on local services.

The document probed a number of key patient concerns, including the ease of making appointments, waiting times, relationships with GPs, and the quality of care.

Of the 483 patients who responded, the findings were mixed.

The trust, responsible for the care of thousands of Watford residents, was ranked as average in most of the 51 subject areas covered. In others, however it was told to improve.

Of particular concern was the current inflexible and unreliable appointments system, with many patients complaining of long waits and late or cancelled slots.

Smokers also complained that not enough help was offered to help them quit.

Despite these grumbles the trust did score highly in other areas, with particular praise given to doctor-patient relationships, cleanliness, prescriptions and medication advice.

Trust director Andrew Parker said: “Many practices in west Hertfordshire are or will soon be offering extended opening hours.

“These include early morning and later evening appointments that reflect the needs of the modern patient.

“Access to appointments is something we are addressing immediately in a range of ways.

“These include opening a GP-led health centre in Hemel Hempstead offering services to all patients in west Hertfordshire.

“It will offer walk-in or pre-booked appointments from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, 365 days a year and patients can either be registered with it or remain with their current practice and access services at the centre when required.”

The new health centre is due to open its doors in spring 2009.

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