Access to GP-led services across the Isle of Wight
Download (PDF 2.92 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Isle of Wight undertook research on changes to access to GP services as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. They ran a survey for staff working at GP surgeries and for the public. 1109 people responded to the public survey and 44 members of staff responded to the staff survey.
The main themes from the public survey were:
- Long waits on the phone to get through (nearly a third waited more than 30 minutes to get through)
- Limited availability of on the day consultations
- Differing views on remote consultations, triaging and staff attitudes.
The main themes from the staff survey were:
- Patients are now more impatient and verbal aggression towards staff has increased
- Workload has increased and GP practices are busier than ever
- Staff are very proud of the way they have kept patient safe whilst finding different ways to care for people.
The report has four recommendations about the need for engagement with patients, clear communication and better call handling.