A new pre-booked evening appointment service is being launched by Brighton and Hove GPs today.
The service will see GP practices working together to offer patients appointments at more convenient times when they call their local practice.
Patients will be able to make an appointment between 6.30pm to 8.30pm at night in the week and from 10am to 4pm on a Saturday and Sunday. These appointments are in addition to the usual GP surgery opening hours from 8am to 6pm.
It means that when patients contact their doctor they will be offered appointments at an accessible time and day at surgeries in the city where appointments are available, which may not always be patients usual practice.
Dr David Supple, Clinical Chair of the CCG, said: “We understand that people cannot always go to see their GP during standard working hours, so we are expanding local services to help more people get access to the right person, providing the right care, in the right place at the right time.
“From October there will be more pre-bookable appointments locally. Appointments may not be at your usual practice, but if you talk to a receptionist, they can help you find the right service and at a time that works best for you where possible.”
A website at www.sussexhelpmy.nhs.uk highlights the all the other alternatives to A&E visits, and has searchable listings on the most appropriate services available across Sussex to treat a range of illness and injuries.
People can also dial 111 if they need medical help but are not in a life-threatening situation. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is a great way to get the right medical advice at any time
