We operate a full appointment system known as Advanced Access, which aims to meet the needs of patients by offering an appointment on the same day as it is needed.
In the early part of 2007 a questionnaire was sent to a number of our patients requesting feedback regarding access to the practice. While we performed very well in dealing with urgent medical problems, it was clear that our patients also value the ability to book routine appointments in advance to fit around other commitments. From 1st November 2007, we have now reverted to a predominantly pre-bookable appointment system where patients are able to book appointments with a specific doctor up to 4 weeks in advance subject to availability. A number of appointments with each doctor will however, continue to be reserved for urgent medical problems. We would therefore be grateful, if you could consider booking an appointment in advance for anything which may not need attention immediately.
Appointments are generally available from 8.15am until 5.30pm Monday to Friday. Appointments may be made by telephone or in person. We now offer on-line appointment booking at www.patient.co.uk
We hope that if the appointments are used appropriately, we should be able to meet urgent and non-urgent demands, as well as offer a more convenient service. We also hope that in the future, as a result of these changes, that the pressure on the telephone lines early in the morning will be reduced, allowing easier access to the practices' services.