Our staff know a lot more than how to answer the phone.
They are not just call-handlers: they are trained care navigators, equipped with extra skills to help you get to the right health service as fast as possible.
So, please don’t be put off if they ask what your problem is when you call to make an appointment. They are not being nosey, just trying to help.
By asking a few simple questions, they may be able to point you in the right direction of other services that could help you better and faster, such as:
- Pharmacist
- Optician
- Dentist
- Family
- Services
- Community
- Support group
We also have a number of other healthcare professionals working within the practice
Mental Health Practitioner - Sam's role includes both telephone and face-to-face appointments. She will carry out short term, focused work with patients who need brief interventions to support their mental health. She will also support referrals to other services if appropriate.
First Contact Musculoskeletal - expert in physiotherapy with specialist training to see neck, back, joints, muscles or soft tissue problems. They can assist with any relevant medication and organise any tests / referrals if needed.
These are all healthcare professionals which your GP would refer to. By giving a brief description of your problem when making an appointment, you could cut out the middle person, making it easier and quicker to get a diagnosis and treatment.
Remember, our care coordinators are subject to the same patient confidentiality rules as all the doctors and clinical staff at this surgery.
You can still ask to see a GP if you want to.