In June, 2022, we invited all adult patients over the age of 18 to complete a survey of their preferred appointment time and type and method of booking. We received over 800 responses. The results are displayed below, along with our response to the results.
Our comment: all adult age groups were represented by the survey respondents, most probably in proportion to how regularly they need to use our services.
Our comment: In December 2022, according to data published by NHS Digital and reported in the Daily Echo, 78% of appointments carried out by us were face-to-face (exactly matching the survey preference!), with the remainder being largely telephone appointments. Patients can choose the method of consulting with us at the time of booking.
Our comment: we offer appointments at all these times. We have early morning appointments on every Tuesday that start at 7:30am, morning and afternoon appointments between 8:30am and 6:30pm every weekday, evening appointments up to 19:30 on Mondays, and each month we provide Saturday morning appointments. These can all be booked in advance either online or through reception.
Our comment: we have recently installed a new digital telephone system that provides a much better experience for patients phoning the surgery. During busy times you can choose to be held in a queue whilst staying on the phone or be rung back when a receptionist becomes available. All our pre-bookable routine appointments can be booked online up to 3 weeks in advance. The e-consult service is available 24/7.
