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Can't get a GP appointment - where do I go for help?

Posted By Anoyed

"Can't get a GP appointment - where do I go for help?"

About: Stockport Medical Group

(as a service user),

I have tried to make an appointment at Stockport Medical Group for the last week. Today I phoned at 8:03am put in a queue when I was rung back 20 minutes later I’m told list is full try again tomorrow or use link forwarded to me or use website.

What a joke that was, both are suspended till 8am tomorrow and no way to contact them other than by phone, to be told these are the only ways to get an appointment try again tomorrow.

As I work for the NHS Monday to Friday 7am-4pm I’m very frustrated with this ridiculous system and wonder how I’m going to see my GP to get help about my painful problem as we’re told not to use Emergency Department services for non urgent matters ,where do I go for help? Or are we expected to live with our problems?

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Responses

Response from Stockport Medical Group 2 years ago
Stockport Medical Group

Submitted on 12/12/2022 at 14:49
Published on nhs.uk at 20:39

Dear Patient,

Thank you for your feedback. We are sorry that you are having difficulties accessing our services. Unfortunately despite all efforts, the practice is just unable to meet the current demand on GP services. We do offer lots of self care help online, and many non urgent minor ailments can be assessed and dealt with at the local pharmacists without the need of a GP. You can also call NHS 111 to access medical advice for your condition, in the event that we have reached our safe appointment capacity, so as not to leave you with no support.

The environment is very challenging for everybody, we apologies that you have found our system ridiculous. As a fellow NHS colleague you will understand the pressure the NHS is facing. I have included the link to what the pharmacists can deal with and at the bottom is the self care links.

https://www.stockportmedicalgroup.nhs.uk/clinics-and-services/right-care-right-time-signpost-information/community-pharmacist/

The local Primary care Network has started to offer some evening and weekend appointments which you can book into, you may find these more suitable with your work schedule. They do still require you to contact the practice either online/telephone and request for this type of appointment, however it can be done after 4pm as the practice is open until 6.30pm Mon - Thu and 6pm on a Friday.

Thank you

Wendy Povey

Practice Director

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