PCT Welcomes Healthcare Commission Primary Care Survey
31/07/2008
Gloucestershire PCT has today welcomed the Healthcare Commission survey of primary care services.
The survey covered topics such as access to appointments, waiting times and patients’ relationships with NHS staff.
The results for Gloucestershire show that overall patients are satisfied with the quality of service provided by local GP surgeries.
More than 500 people completed the survey between January and April 2008. Key results from the survey are:
- 96% of respondents felt their doctor treated them with respect and dignity (national average 93%)
- 88% of respondents felt their doctor listened carefully to what they had to say (national average 83%)
- 91% of respondents stated they were able to book a doctor’s appointment three or more days in advance (national average 74%).
The PCT is continuing to work with its partners to improve access to dentistry and recognise this is a key priority for local people. Three further dental practices providing 11 more dentists will soon be available in the county.
Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust, Jan Stubbings said:
“These results show that overall patients in Gloucestershire are very positive about the care and treatment they are receiving in primary care, which is testament to the work of staff in practices and health centres. We will use the results to build on the excellent care already given to patients and respond to any concerns raised.
“The PCT remains committed to working together with local GPs and practice teams to plan for the future and provide the very best care and access to services for patients. We recognise that NHS dentistry is a key priority for local people and we will be investing significant extra funds this year to expand provision across Gloucestershire, as well as developing further plans.”
Dr Tony Walsh, Chair of the Professional Executive Committee and Tetbury GP, said: “These are encouraging results that reinforce the quality of care provided in local GP Surgeries. It is important that we look carefully at where further improvements can be made, including making sure patients are offered a choice of hospital for their treatment and further improving access to dentistry.
“We would like to thank those who responded to the survey and provided us with valuable feedback.”
Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust has plans in place to spend £2 million on replacing and refurbishing a number of GP surgeries in Gloucestershire. The PCT has also discussed with the Local Medical Committee how the PCT can support GP surgeries who may wish to consider extending their opening hours.
The three new dental practices will be opening up in Lydney, Cirencester and Tewkesbury towards the end of the year.
