16.01.09 Extended Hours for GP Surgeries

Extended hours for GP Surgeries

As part of a government initiative to extend the opening hours of GP surgeries practices in North Tyneside are exceeding national targets according to the latest figures.

In an attempt to give the patient more flexibility with appointments practices in Monkseaton are either opening later or over weekends providing medical services.

Out of all the practices in North Tyneside, Newcastle and Northumberland 87% are providing the extra services exceeding the government target of 50%.

Dr Mike Guy comments:

"When we are talking to the public about what changes they would like to see to improve health services, a very clear message is that they would like more choice over when they can visit their practice. These recent changes involving many of our practices across the North of Tyne area are providing greater flexibility. By opening earlier in the morning, later at night or at weekends, patients have more flexibility of when they can visit their GP.

"More practices are introducing extended access using a local payment scheme we have developed in partnership with GPs and we hope to encourage others to take this forward.''

"Our GP services receive high satisfaction ratings from the public and recent surveys and public involvement activities have shown how people value extended opening hoursof GP practices. We are constantly striving to improve services and this is good for patients that GPs are responding positively to this initiative.''

To find out more about the extended hours contact your GP surgery.