Lack of on-site GP availability concerning.

Summary: Lack of on-site GP availability concerning.

I am raising concerns about my experience with Hightown Village Surgery, which I believe reflects a wider access and resourcing issue affecting patients.

On two separate occasions I contacted the surgery—once for my son and once for myself—and on both occasions I was informed that there was no GP available at the surgery to see patients. This came as a surprise, as patients have not been informed that the surgery operates on a part-time basis or that there are times when no GP is available on site.
For my son, we were advised to attend an appointment in the community rather than being seen at the surgery. For myself, I was told that there were no face-to-face appointments available at all and that the only option was a telephone appointment more than a week away. My issue relates to a foot problem that requires a physical examination, so a telephone appointment does not feel clinically appropriate or a good use of NHS resources.

I am concerned that the lack of on-site GP availability and the absence of continuity of care negatively affects patients and places additional strain on families and individuals who rely on timely, appropriate GP services. I am also concerned that these service limitations have not been clearly communicated to patients, meaning expectations are not being managed transparently.

Historically, the doctors at this surgery have provided excellent care, and it is disappointing to see that current resourcing issues appear to be reducing the level of service available to the community. As a result of these ongoing difficulties, I feel I may have no option but to consider moving to a different GP practice.