Extended Access
We are part of a network of practices in Shropshire, working together to offer patients “Extended Access” to pre-bookable appointments in the evenings, at the weekend and during bank holidays. Part of the national agenda by NHS England, Extended Access means patients will be able to make pre-bookable appointments to see a GP, practice nurse, or other qualified healthcare professional, at a time which may be more convenient for them.
In Shropshire, local practices will work together in a network of “hubs” to provide this service. The ‘hubs’ will take turns to provide the Extended Access appointments to patients. This means patients could be offered an appointment at their own surgery or at a nearby practice in the local area (part of the hub). Patients will be advised about appointment location at time of booking, enabling them to make an informed choice about their where and when they access care.
We will be part of a network of practices (known as “hubs”) in Shropshire, working together to offer patients “Extended Access” to pre-bookable appointments – in the evenings, at the weekend and during bank holidays.
Locally the pre-bookable appointments will be available as follows:
- Weekday evenings (Monday to Friday) appointments between 6.30pm and 8pm
- Saturday appointments between 8.30am and 5pm
- Sunday appointments between 8.30am and 12.30am
Arranging a pre-bookable evening, weekend or bank holiday appointment is easy to do – patients simply need to contact reception, during normal opening hours, and speak to a member of the practice team who will be able to help. Appointments may not be with your registered GP but will be with a GP or other qualified healthcare professional.
Extended Access adds to the existing range of healthcare services already available in Shropshire to help patients, including pharmacists, NHS 111, the walk-in centre, minor injury units, and A&E (which is there 24/7 for life threatening serious emergencies only).
It isn’t always necessary to see a GP for minor and common conditions – find out more about how to self-care for these types of conditions on the self-care section of the NHS Shropshire Telford & Wrekin Integrated Care System website.
It is important to be aware of how long common conditions should take to clear up and always seek medical advice if you are unsure or if you feel it is an emergency.