GP practices in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have begun offering improved access to routine appointments.
Evening and weekend appointments can now be booked at your GP practice following changes across the country.
“Somerset’s GP practices now offer improved access for registered patients who want or need a routine appointment up to 8.00pm in the evening or an appointment at the weekend,” said spokesman Paul Courtney from Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group.
Appointments must be booked in advance and during normal practice opening hours (Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.30pm – this is not a walk-in service).
To find out more or book a routine appointment, please speak to your practice’s receptionist.
Burnham Medical Centre said: “Improved Access is a new initiative across Somerset whereby patients can make appointments at extended times (up until 8pm at night Monday-Friday and on Saturday mornings) at other practices across the local area.”
“Appointment types will vary, some being face to face and some on the ‘phone and there will be a mixture of pre-bookable and same day appointments available across the week. They may be with a doctor but could also be with another healthcare professional such as a primary care practitioner or a nurse. We are keen to balance the importance of continuity of care with convenient access for patients whilst ensuring that the service is safe.”
“To book an evening or weekend appointment please contact your registered practice during normal opening times, this will help us to signpost you to the most appropriate option for your particular problem. By contacting us we can fully explain the process, ensure that the booking is appropriate, as we hope to be able to meet your needs by offering an appointment with your usual GP, and cover all the relevant information (and consent) that we need to before we book an appointment for you.”
Monday evenings 6.30-8.00pm Burnham & Berrow Medical Centre
Tuesday evenings 6.30-8.00pm Cheddar Medical Centre
Wednesday evenings 6.30-8.00pm Axbridge and Wedmore Medical Practice & Burnham & Berrow Medical Centre
Thursday evenings 6.30-8.00pm Highbridge Medical Centre
Friday evenings 6.30-8.00pm Brent Area Medical Centre
If you become ill and need an urgent, same-day appointment at your GP practice, just call the practice in the morning and request an urgent appointment. If you become ill overnight and need medical advice or support, telephone NHS 111 for the GP Out-of-Hours Service.
