Enhanced Patient Access to GP Practices Survey

Healthwatch Hounslow launches a new project:

Have your say in the survey to help understand enhanced access to GP practices in Hounslow.

In collaboration with the North West London Integrated Care System (ICS) and Hounslow Primary Care teams, Healthwatch Hounslow is conducting a research study to better understand and improve patient access to GP practices.

The survey aims to address long-standing concerns such as waiting times, appointment scheduling, and the quality of consultations for Hounslow residents.

Patient Access a Priority 

Patient access to GP practices has been a top concern for residents in Hounslow. Issues like long waiting times on the telephone to book appointments, delays in securing appointments, and concerns about the quality of telephone and online consultations have been persistent challenges. 

Initiatives to Improve Access 

To address these concerns, the North West London ICS and Hounslow are prioritizing efforts to improve patient access to GP services. Several interventions are being implemented, including the transfer of most GP practices to VoIP telephony to manage telephone queues better. The goal is to ensure equitable access to healthcare services, reduce waiting times for appointments, and enhance the quality of online, telephone, and in-person consultations. 

The Need for Comprehensive Data 

While the ICS and Primary Care teams have access to some data from telephony and practice management software regarding waiting times and appointment scheduling, a comprehensive understanding of the user experience is still needed. To achieve this, Healthwatch Hounslow aims to conduct an in-depth research study that will paint a bigger picture of the patient experience. 

Your Voice Matters 

Healthwatch Hounslow is calling on residents of Hounslow to participate in the online survey. By sharing your experiences and opinions, you can contribute to positive changes in the healthcare system. The survey will cover various aspects of accessing GP appointments, including waiting times, appointment availability in the evenings and weekends, and the overall user experience. 

The Impact of Your Participation 

The findings from this survey will be used to write a comprehensive report, which will be made available on the Healthwatch Hounslow website. The report will also be shared with local authorities, health service partners, and GP practices. Your valuable feedback will help the healthcare providers understand residents' needs better and support GP surgeries in enhancing their services. 

Win High Street Vouchers 

As an incentive for participation, every respondent will be automatically entered into a free draw to win High Street Vouchers. Prizes include a £50 voucher, a £25 voucher, and a £10 voucher. Simply provide your email or telephone details at the end of the survey to enter the draw. 

How to Participate 

The survey is expected to take 10-15 minutes to complete. To join the effort in improving patient access to GP practices, visit this link or scan the QR code in this article. Your feedback and views are essential in shaping the future of healthcare services in Hounslow. 

Make a Difference Today 

Your voice matters. Participate in the Healthwatch Hounslow survey and play a vital role in enhancing patient access to GP practices in Hounslow. Together, we can build a more accessible and patient-centered healthcare system for the community. Take the survey now and let your experience be heard!