The Wyre Forest Citizen’s Advice Bureau’s monthly column for the Standard.
ACCESSING timely GP care remains a concern for many residents.
Wyre Forest Citizens Advice continues to hear from people struggling to secure appointments, facing long waits on the phone or finding it difficult to navigate online booking systems.
While GP practices are working hard under pressure, the reality for many patients is frustration. Delays in accessing care can mean that health issues worsen before they are addressed.
For those not confident using digital tools, booking appointments can be particularly challenging.
Others report difficulties in getting through by phone or understanding the triage systems now in place.
These barriers can have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups, including older people, those with disabilities and individuals managing long-term conditions.
At Wyre Forest Citizens Advice, we are supporting residents to understand how to access services, make complaints where necessary and explore alternative options such as pharmacies or NHS helplines.
Wyre Forest Health Partnership was happy to provide an update.
It said: “Wyre Forest Health Partnership includes five local GP practices and cares for over 73,800 patients.
“In March alone, the partnership received more than 1,100 patient requests per day, sometimes even more.
“To manage demand, all requests go through a Total Triage system.
“Whether patients contact the practice online, through the NHS App, by phone or in person, requests are reviewed first to decide the right care and urgency.
“Patients are encouraged to use the NHS App where possible, helping keep phone lines avail-able for those who need them.
“The partnership has also improved phone services, with 84 per cent of calls answered within five minutes last month.
“Reception teams can also help patients submit requests in person.”
Wyre Forest Health Partnership confirmed, “We remain committed to providing safe, timely care for our community and thank our patients for their continued support and understanding.”
If you are experiencing difficulties accessing GP services, Wyre Forest Citizens Advice can provide free, confidential, and impartial advice to help you navigate the system.
Call our Freephone number on 0808 278 7891 to speak to an adviser or email: [email protected] to request assistance.
Citizens Advice – the people’s champion!
