Because we all care – GP referrals
Nationally Healthwatch has been hearing about patients struggling to access General Practice and the affect this had when they needed a referral to more specialist care. We wanted to understand how the residents of Shropshire were being affected.
During 2021 and 2022 the pressures on GP services has been widely reported in local and national media, in particular access to appointments. We wanted to understand how the residents of Shropshire were being affected and used a Healthwatch England survey to gather information.
This report is based on the experiences of 279 people who responded to the Shropshire survey.
The Healthwatch England findings are here: GP referrals: we need to address the ‘hidden’ waiting list | Healthwatch
Recommendations
- All patients are made aware of the likely wait time to be seen once the referral has been made and are offered choice in line with the NHS constitution .
- Once referred patients are given information and advice to help them manage their conditions / symptoms along with their mental health and wellbeing while waiting for a referral appointment.
- Patients are updated regularly on the progress being made with their referral.
- Clinicians confirm with patients that the patient is happy with the appointment method, in person or remote, and the patient is satisfied that they have been given the opportunity to fully discuss all of their concerns and symptoms.
Full Report
If you need this report in a different format please contact us:
enquiries@healthwatchshropshire.co.uk
01743 237884
