We know that for some time patients have been asking us to make some changes to the way that we offer appointments at the Practice and, despite the delay and extra complications that the pandemic has brought us, we are now excited to be able to announce some pretty significant changes to the system that are live from the start of September.

Book those appointments in advance

This is a big one! Patients are now able to book appointments up to two weeks in advance; do this online, by calling us on the telephone or visiting us in reception (once the current restrictions are lifted).

This is going to significantly improve both continuity of care – being able to speak to the same person – and the experience that people have with our telephones.

A robust same-day offer

If you feel you need some advice sooner, then our new same-day team are here to help.

We have created two same-day hubs; one in the North of our practice area, based at Carters Green Medical Centre, and one in the South based at Oakham Surgery. Each of these hubs will be staffed by two GPs, a GP Registrar, a Physician Associate and a First Contact Physiotherapist; that’s 10 clinicians providing same-day access for our patients.

Appointments can be booked on the day via the telephone, in person at the practice (once the current restrictions are lifted) and online from 8:00pm the night before.

More colleagues to help you

We are absolutely delighted to able to welcome new colleagues to our clinical team who have joined/are joining us in August/September; five new GPs, six new First Contact Physiotherapists and three new General Practice Nurses.

We’ve been working with First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) for some time although the role is still relatively new to General Practice. FCPs are Physiotherapists with enhanced skills.

If you are experiencing a new musculoskeletal issue such as back, neck or joint pain, FCPs can help by assessing and diagnosing issues, giving expert advice on how to manage your condition, referring you on to specialist services if necessary.

Best all of these appointments can be booked directly – you do not need to speak to a doctor first!

For full guidance on all of the available appointment options, go to our appointments page