Patients across York and North Yorkshire are to be asked for their opinions on their GP services in a bid to improve the local NHS, as NICOLA FIFIELD reports.


THOUSANDS of patients in York and North Yorkshire have the chance to give their views on how to improve family doctor services.

Surveys have been sent to about 54,000 people in the county – a random selection of patients registered with GP practices.

The results of the survey, which was launched by the Government this week, will be used to drive changes to GP services and reward GPs who provide fast, convenient services.

Last year’s survey rated North Yorkshire and York’s GPs as being among the best in England.

It showed people had quick access to GP services, while nearly all patients surveyed had confidence and trust in their doctor, and felt their doctor explained the reasons for any treatment in a way that was easy to understand.

Jayne Brown, interim chief executive of NHS North Yorkshire and York, said: “Patient surveys in recent years have consistently rated our GP services very highly and we are proud of that.

“Feedback from people who use these services will help us to continue to respond positively to their needs and ensure patients can get the right care, in the right way and at the right time.”

In response to patients’ calls for quick access to GP appointments at convenient times in last year’s survey, more than half of GP practices now offer extended opening hours to make it easier for patients to get appointments at times that suit them.

Health Minister Ben Bradshaw said: “The national GP patient survey last year gave five million people a chance to have their say on improving access to their GP.

“The NHS listened and responded, and now more than half of GP practices are making it easier for their patients to book appointments later in the evening, earlier in the morning or at the weekend.

“This new survey with wider questions will ensure patients can have their say about the issues that matter most to them.

“Where patients identify areas for improvement, the local NHS will need to respond.

“I hope everyone who receives a questionnaire will take the time to fill it in and help to drive improvements in healthcare by giving us an accurate picture of patients’ experiences of local GP services,” he said.

Patients’ answers will also help to set the level of payments made to their GP practice for delivering access to GP appointments in two working days and for booking appointments in advance.

All surveys must be returned by April 13.

• The Press reported earlier this month how doctors in York and North Yorkshire had criticised a Government scheme to allow patients to post comments about their performance of their GP on an NHS website. The Department of Health said remarks would be moderated to prevent defamation and the identification or rating of individual doctors.