GP survey report

The Healthwatch North Somerset GP Practice Survey took place between October 2014 and January 2015 and gathered almost 700 responses over the 25 GP Practices in North Somerset. Analysis of the survey found that the majority of respondents were largely happy with the service their GP practice provided but there were pockets of dissatisfaction. These areas are highlighted in this report and include better access to online bookings, getting through more easily to book appointments, patient confidentiality in the reception area and greater satisfaction with the GP – these are all specific things for which changes can be made in the way GP Practices function to improve patient experiences and manage patient expectations. Views of GP reception services are mixed whilst there were many positive comments about the service, there were some comments of concern. A large number also responded that there was insufficient facility to speak confidentially at the reception area. Patient Participation Groups (PPGs) are useful and effective ways to link with patients and provide a lay perspective on the practice. A large number of respondents were unaware of a PPG in their GP Practice. Healthwatch North Somerset recommendations are included on Page 93 of this report.