If you’ve experienced any health issues in the last few months, you’ll know how maddening the 8am telephone battle is to get in touch with your GP. It’s become frustratingly difficult to get an NHS GP appointment, and satisfaction levels with the NHS are at an all-time low. The causes for this have combined into a ‘perfect storm’ of issues, but that doesn’t help all of us that often need medical support.
Firstly, GP surgeries are typically understaffed and oversubscribed. This means that they are frequently operating at full capacity, leaving little room for people to get appointments. With more and more people requiring medical care, GP surgeries can become overwhelmed and unable to provide the service required.
Secondly, there is a chronic shortage of GPs in the UK. This means that there are not enough doctors to meet the demands of the population, leading to longer wait times for appointments. GPs are also aging, with many planning to retire in the following years, further exacerbating this problem.
Thirdly, there is a lack of access to primary care services in some areas. Many areas are underserved by GP surgeries, meaning people have to travel long distances for medical care. This can make it difficult to get an appointment and can be costly for those who have to travel.
Finally, some GPs are limiting the number of appointments they are offering. This can mean that people can be turned away or have to wait for a long time to get an appointment. This can be especially problematic for those who have an urgent medical need. Wait times for what is deemed ‘non-urgent’ can exceed two weeks!
The solution to finding a GP Appointment
Seeking help early on is important to prevent bigger issues, and patients are often experiencing frustration and stress when making appointments. Pharmacies and other agencies are doing their best to help lighten the load on the NHS and also offering support for patients in need.
This is where the cost-effective Private GP Service comes in. For just £5 per month, you and all your family will have access to NHS registered doctors 24 hours a day wherever you are. They offer telephone consultations, video calls and can also arrange prescriptions to a local pharmacy or delivered straight to your door.
Many of our customers get an appointment with a doctor within minutes, all from one call to a free phone number, whatever the time of day or night. To receive instant access today, sign up here, or call us on 01476 850722.