In response to local feedback about challenges in booking appointments with GPs, we have explored people’s experiences across the county.
64% of people who took part in our survey were offered a face-to-face appointment with their GP. In our latest report we have listened to experiences of Somerset residents who tried to book an appointment to see their GP.
Concerns about a lack of professional medical qualifications when being triaged by an administrator and long waits for routine appointments were some of the problems people told us about.
Key messages
More than half of those trying to book an appointment contacted their surgery by telephone.
There are still long waits involved in booking and scheduling appointments.
38% of telephone calls connected to a receptionist/administrator within five minutes.
The triage processes and execution vary between GP surgeries and is unclear to some people.
Many people received an appointment with a GP/Doctor after they were triaged.
Some people are happy to use digital technology for appointments when suitable and available.
Most respondents said continuity of care for the same condition was very important.
Read our report
If you need this report in a different format, please email info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call 0800 999 1286.