Appointments available over Christmas

Doctors in Calderdale want to remind people that appointments with GPs and practice nurses are available every day over the winter period.

As part of the Improved Access service, people can access routine appointments from 6.30pm–8.00pm Monday to Friday and weekend appointments from 10am-2pm every Saturday and Sunday.

Appointments are also available between 10am–11.30am on Bank Holidays, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

And appointments are held at Improved Access Hubs, which are Spring Hall Medical Centre in Halifax, and Southowram Surgery. Patients should speak to their own practice to find out more and to book an Improved Access appointment.

Dr Caroline Taylor, GP member of Calderdale CCG’s Governing Body and GP at Beechwood Medical Centre in Ovenden, said: “Winter is always a busy period for the NHS, which is why it’s so important that people know that GPs and practice nurses are on-hand every day during the winter period.

“We know that many people struggle to access GP appointments at a time that suits them, particularly over the Christmas period when many people are very busy.

“That’s why we’ve worked with GPs to improve peoples’ access to primary medical services.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“This is the first winter that hundred per cent of people registered with GP practices in Calderdale can access appointments seven days a-week, even on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day at our Improved Access Hubs.”

As well as extra appointments during times when GP practices aren’t traditionally open, Calderdale CCG has invested £370,297 in order to provide extra appointments with GPs and practice nurses during standard opening times of 8am–6.30pm on weekdays.