Access fears are top of worry list

Problems with access to GPs and dentists were the top two reasons for residents to contact Lincolnshire Healthwatch, according to a recent report.

From October 2020 to September 2021, more than 1,200 patients contacted the organisation’s information signposting team.

The four most frequently commented on were GP access, dental access, hospital services and the COVID vaccination programme.

“Additionally, an overall theme of communication regardless of the service was identified as a common issue,” said the report.

Feedback to the organisation showed that 12 percent were positive and 48 per cent negative.

“We received multiple concerns of localised issues of people not being able to get through to their GP practice on the phone.

“Some reported not being able to get through at all, while others faced very long waiting times,” the report says.

People who work were more likely to find the system not very ‘user-friendly.’

With the arrival of the pandemic, the move from in-person to remote or online appointments was hastened.

“People were concerned about data safety and how it would be used to diagnose without seeing someone in person.

“However, for many, once the initial problems were solved and people were given time to adapt to digital services, we received lots of positive feedback for them,” the report says.

But it wasn’t the case for all patients.

“People told us that they did not get confirmation that their online request had gone through.”

Residents were also not contacted by staff and had no idea when a clinician would call them back.
Lincolnshire Commissioning Group responded by saying there are three ways to access their GP services; online, phone and face-to-face.

Lack of an NHS dentist was the biggest concern, with people contacting up to 15 different practises.

“There seems to be ample provision of private services with NHS practices. Yet, paying for private treatment is not feasible for the majority.”

The report said the lack of availability meant patients were left in pain and discomfort with nowhere to go.

Patients willing to travel considerable distances were unable to find NHS care and were offered an appointment a year later. The organisation said there needed to be more clarity and information.