GPs: your verdict

Article Abstract:

Most patients are happy with the care from their general practitioners (GPs), but sometimes the priorities of the two groups can differ. A significant 54% of GPs say they would put improving time scheduling for patients as their top priority, while only 27% of patients regarded this an a key concern. In contrast, 34% of patients regarded improving the times for waiting in a waiting room or to get an appointment as most important, compared to only 10% of GPs. The reforms within the National Health Service now mean it is more likely for patients to benefit from such extra services as counselling in fundholding surgeries than in non-fundholding practices. The advantages and disadvantages of fundholding for patients are also discussed.

Practice, Economic policy, Physicians (General practice), General practitioners, Health services administration

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Walk-in centres checked out

Article Abstract:

An evaluation of National Health Service walk-in centres indicates that the level of service varies between centres, with quality of care depending on the patient being properly directed by the reception staff. Three patients presented themselves for treatment at the centres, with the centre in Wakefield being the most impressive.

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NHS Direct -- help or hindrance?

Article Abstract:

One-third of callers wait longer than the target "under five minutes" when calling NHS Direct, and some waited 30 minutes. The NHS Direct nurses staffing the call center did a poor job of identifying serious medical emergencies in callers, and some callers were not called back as promised.

Author: Ratcliff, Nikki
United Kingdom, Services information, Innovations, Services, Patient care, Nursing assessment

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Subjects list: Evaluation, Medical care, United Kingdom. National Health Service
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