Harleston Medical Practice - Appointments
Since the merger the appointment system at the surgery has been an evolving beast, as we try to ensure the right mix of book in advance (up to three months), book on the day (non urgent) and emergency appointments are available for our 9000 patients.
The average size of a GPs list in the UK is 1800 patients; at the surgery we have 1798 patients per GP. The GPs no longer hold personal lists which means that patients can see any GP they wish – obviously some are more popular than others, and several work part time this affects availability. Some patients take the same problem to several GPs (occasionally on the same day) before they are satisfied!
In an average week we offer 440 pre bookable appointment as well as book on the day appointments if patients have an emergency that cannot wait. The system provides plenty of appointments for normal consulting patterns however we experience a large amount of patients who do not attend for their appointments (DNA) this is beyond our control. However if patients are a frequent DNA’er we will write to them, should this persist we will consult with the PCT about removal from our list as this is unfair to patients who need appointments.
If you no longer need your appointment there are many ways of cancelling it, by phone, fax, via the website or by calling into the surgery. On the morning of Monday 31st January nine patients DNA’d their appointments with the GPS (six with the nurses, four with the phlebotomists).
The ‘on call’ GP has a day clear of appointments purely to see emergencies; this system can often be abused, with patients insisting on being seen for very minor ailments that could have waited. Patients should be aware that if an emergency call comes in the GP will have to leave and they will have to wait for their return. Think of it as a casualty, if you are not prepared to wait it is not an emergency.
Last Monday morning the on call GP saw thirty seven emergencies, had fourteen telephone consultations and visited two patients.
When you leave the consulting room the GPs work does not end, your consultation may have generated tests – results will need careful checking and actioning, referrals – letters will need dictating and post back from hospital will require careful checking and actioning. All this for up to thirty patients per day together with administration from the health authority and general daily queries from patients.
Please be understanding with our receptionists they are only doing what they are instructed to do.
Thank you