Easier than you think to see GP

GPs IN Todmorden are launching a campaign to make sure patients know how best to book appointments, and to avoid delay and inconvenience.
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NHS

Todmorden Group Practice offers on average 533 GP appointments to its patients every week but people still find it difficult to book an appointment.

Senior partner Dr Nigel Davey said: “The practice opens at 8am, Monday to Friday, and patients can call on the practice number, 01706 811100 at that time or, if it is convenient, come to practice reception desk.

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“Usually there is greater demand for appointments earlier in the week and on Friday. If your need is not urgent then you may find it easier to obtain an appointment on Wednesday or Thursday.”

There is a misconception that appointments cannot be booked in advance but Todmorden Group Practice offers bookable appointments for routine consultations two or three weeks ahead.

Practice manager Tracy Wilson said: “If there is a particular GP you want to see, and it’s not an urgent situation, you can ring to book an appointment in advance, or you can book online if you have previously come into the practice to register for online booking.”

Patients ringing on the day with an urgent issue will always be offered an appointment but it may not be possible to be with a specific GP.

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Chris O’Gorman, a patient of Todmorden Group Practice, said: “There are some misunderstandings about how the practice operates its appointment arrangements.

“You don’t have to be waiting on the phone at 8am!”

Practice staff will be increasing the amount of publicity available about appointment arrangements both in the practice and on the practice website www.todmordengrouppractice.nhs.uk