GP Access Survey report– Opening Times and Booking Preferences

Report - 6 June 2017

We have recently carried out a survey to find out people's preferences when booking an appointment with their GP and how to book.

We have recently carried out a survey to find out peoples preferences when booking an appointment with their GP and how to book.

This investigation took place as a result of discussions at the Primary Care Co-Commissioning Committee (SWB CCG) meeting of 5th April 2017, regarding 7 day opening for General Practitioners. Various views were presented, and evidence gaps were highlighted.

The overall finding is that, if there is varied and available access to GP appointments, the weekend opening is only preferred for serious conditions.

It was also found that GP opening times is a far more complex area than simply asking people when they want GPs to open, depending on several factors, and it is difficult to obtain meaningful evidence.

There was significant preference shown for most of the appointment times and booking methods presented in the investigation scenarios. There was also considerable support for a Skype or telephone consultation with any GP, if it was within ten minutes.

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GP Access Survey report– Opening Times and Booking Preferences
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