It is a challenging world for GP surgeries and their patients; pay disputes and junior doctor strikes have been adding pressure, and face-to-face appointments are not as common as they used to be. Though some are dismayed by this change, NHS Frimley (which runs GP surgeries in the area and Wexham Park Hospital) is keen to highlight the positives. GPs are now supported by this larger team that includes pharmacists, mental health practitioners, paramedics and social prescribers, who work together to support patients to get the right care. Among other things, 111 books appointments in designated slots at GP surgeries for patients it has identified will need them. Another thing that helping take the pressure off GP surgeries is the mental health help option introduced into the 111 service, which is ‘quite vital’.

Source: Express January 01, 2024 17:03 UTC