Our response to the National Audit Office report on GP access

The National Audit Office (NAO) has published their report 'Stocktake of access to general practice in England'.

The report shows that although patient satisfaction with access to general practice remains high, it is declining. The report also highlights the need for better data so that decisions about general practice are well-informed.

In response to the NAO’s report on access to general practice in England, Our Chair, Anna Bradley, said:

“The NAO’s report today reflects what we are hearing from Healthwatch in all four corners of the country – that, more than ever, people are struggling to access GP appointments.

“Our work on primary care has found that access is not just an issue in terms of booking appointments in the first place, but that there are major access barriers for certain patient groups – such as GP surgeries not able to provide interpreters or hearing loops for people who are Deaf.

“However - we know that patients understand the challenges GPs face and are willing to help alleviate the pressure.

“Now is the time for GPs to work with patients to drive improvement by enabling better access to appointments, such as online booking and interpreters, and making people aware of viable and attractive alternatives, such as pharmacy and walk in centres. This way all patients can access the right care when they need it the most.”