New NHS data reveals that patients in Somerset are facing significant waiting times for GP appointments, with around one in every 12 appointments in March taking place more than 28 days after booking. This proportion is among the highest in the country, highlighting the impact of the NHS postcode lottery on access to primary care services.
In contrast, some areas of the country have much lower wait times, with just 1% of appointments in North Central London occurring more than 28 days after booking. The disparities in wait times across different regions underscore the challenges patients face when seeking timely access to healthcare services.
The NHS is addressing the issue by providing millions more appointments and improving access through advanced technology. However, there is still more work to be done to ensure easier and more efficient access to local GP services. Both Dr. Amanda Doyle and Professor Bola Owolabi emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to enhance patient care and address healthcare inequalities.
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Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted the government’s efforts to reform the GP contract and improve access to healthcare services, allowing patients greater choice and control over their own healthcare.
The disparity in GP appointment wait times across different regions underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve access to general practice and address healthcare inequalities.