Access to Primary Care Report: May - August 2024

Healthwatch Knowsley report on the feedback they received on primary care during the period May to August 2024.  During this period they heard from 604 people.

Treatment and care has continued to be the most highly rated theme. Healthwatch Knowsley regularly receive a consistent number of positive comments relating to the treatment received, showing that despite some people stating they have struggled with access, when they do receive care it has been a positive experience.

In relation to access, concerns emerge from trying to contact their surgery at 8am to obtain an appointment, relaying their frustration in having to call the surgery numerous times or even attending the surgery in person only to be told all appointments have gone and therefore have to repeat the process again the following day.

Targeted outreach activity has shown that although the majority of people are pleased with the service they receive, others are experiencing delays with medication. There needs to be clear communication with people when there maybe potential delays due to supply shortages, as well as alternative support when vital medications are delayed. A number of people mentioned extending opening hours to include Saturdays, as smaller local pharmacies are only available during weekdays. It might possibly be worth considering if this would be a viable option for local pharmacies, to make services available at a local level at weekends. It is important to note that Healthwatch are aware of the concerns and pressures on local pharmacies, particularly in relation to stock shortages and issues with supplies.

In relation to access to NHS dental health care, this continues to be an ongoing issue with Knowsley residents, with people struggling to find dental care within their locality. People are continuing to struggle to access emergency care, as well as follow up care after emergency treatment. Despite a monthly call to dental practices there has been no significant changes to access for NHS patient. However, in discussion with colleagues in neighbouring boroughs, some Liverpool dental surgeries have become available to new NHS patients, with Knowsley residents being signposted to services outside of the area. It is hoped that the Government’s Dental Recovery Plan will help to improve access to affordable NHS dental treatment, although we are aware that this will not be an overnight fix. Healthwatch Knowsley will continue to contact all dental surgeries within Knowsley to monitor their availability for both NHS and private patients.