00:00Councillors in Northumberland are preparing a detailed review of access to GP services in the county following survey results showing
00:07nearly 50% of patients experience difficulty contact in the practice by telephone.
00:11At Tuesday's Health and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee, members agreed to establish a task and finish group to conduct an in
00:19-depth assessment.
00:21Committee Chairman, Councillor Georgina Hill, emphasised the importance of identifying risks associated with delayed access.
00:28Survey data indicates 44% of patients can see their preferred clinician, while 79% report overall satisfaction.
00:36Strategic Head of Primary Care James Martin highlighted challenges linked to rising demand, an ageing population and capacity constraints.
00:45Appointments in the county increased 14.7% between 2022-23 and 2025-26, reaching 207,000, with 344,235
00:59people registered across 36 practices.
01:02Additional capital funding has created 20 new clinical rooms and recruitment has expanded staffing levels.
01:08The review will examine appointment scheduling, service provision and potential solutions to ensure patient needs are met officially.
01:16Funding allocations will be monitored to ensure new facilities and staffing meet local demand without delay or disruption.
01:22Patient feedback will continue to inform decisions on improving access and quality of GP services across the county.
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