Feeling under the weather? GPs in south and east Leeds open extra hours during winter
NHS Leeds South and East Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), the health body responsible for planning and funding local healthcare has come together with local GPs in the south and east of Leeds to offer extra opening hours for local people. The winter extra hours will run from December 2014 – March 2015.
In response to recent reports that the demand for GP appointments has risen considerably, the CCG and member practices have undertaken a voluntary scheme to support patients over the winter period.
Local practices are working with other GP practices in the area to provide extra opening hours. This means that local people may be able to access an appointment outside of normal working hours but it might be at another local practice.
Speaking about the scheme, Clinical Chief Officer of NHS Leeds South and East CCG Dr Andy Harris said;
“Winter is a very difficult time with minor ailments from coughs and cold to more serious illnesses. We have decided to meet the need of our local community by offering extra hours when surgeries are normally closed. As a GP, I hope that by offering a range of primary care services during these times will offer greater convenience and make sure that a visit to A&E is avoided unless it is for a genuine emergency.”
The extra hours service will be an on the day clinic and will not disrupt the existing out of hours’ service provided when GP surgeries are usually closed as this will continue to operate as normal. More details about where each session will be held is available on www.leedssouthandeastccg.nhs. uk/gpextra or patients can contact their surgery for more information.
