GPs working differently Posted or Updated on 25 Apr 2024

GPs, their teams, and patients have faced an extremely challenging time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite lockdown measures lifting the pandemic is still not over.
Face-to-face contact has been limited across all NHS services to protect you and keep you safe from the risk of infection.

We want to be honest with you. General practice will continue to struggle to meet the growing needs of patients.
This isn’t the way we want it to be, but practices are open, and we are here for you when you need us.

Why are things different?

To keep you and everyone else safe appointments are being triaged. This helps give you the type of appointment you need:

• To be seen in person
• A phone consultation
• A video consultation
• Help from your local pharmacy

If you need to be seen face-to-face you will be.

Why do receptionists ask such personal questions?

Receptionists are a vital part of the practice team. Their questions are to ensure that you are seen by the right person at the right time, and all answers are kept confidential.

Why am I seeing someone who is not my GP?

Not everyone needs to see a GP. Many practices now offer appointments with other healthcare professionals, including nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, physician assistants, mental health workers and paramedics. This ensures you see the right person for your condition as quickly as possible.

Where else can I get help?

Visit www.nhs.uk for advice on how to treat common symptoms or contact www.111.nhs.uk or dial 111 to speak to someone who can help.

In a life-threatening emergency always call 999.

Your GP surgery needs your support, so it can be there to support you.
We can’t meet this challenge alone. General practice desperately needs help from the Government.

Visit www.bma.org.uk/supportyoursurgery  to find out more