New plans to improve patient access to GPs and boost the availability of face-to-face appointments have been welcomed by James Duddridge MP.
The Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East was given an update on the blueprint by Health Minister Maria Caulfield MP on Thursday (14th October 2021).
Backed by a £250 million winter access fund, the number of face-to-face appointments is being increased, with a focus on increasing capacity to boost urgent same-day care.
The plan also sets out further measures to tackle abuse at GP surgeries so staff who work tirelessly to care for patients can do so without fear for their safety.
Welcoming the announcement, James said:
“I know many residents want to be able to see their GP in person, therefore I am pleased that this additional funding will provide general practices the support needed to improve patient access.
“It is also welcomed that further measures have been set out to tackle abuse at GP surgeries, which is completely unacceptable. Our GPs and their teams work incredibly hard and should be able to care for patients without fear for their safety.”
For further information about the plans set out to improve access for NHS patients and support GPs, click here.
