Views wanted on urgent GP service

They want to hear from as many people as possible about different options for the way urgent healthcare is provided for people living in Bradford and Airedale.

Urgent care NHS services are those people use when they need advice or treatment immediately, but which is not an emergency. It includes anything from telephone advice through to treatment by a nurse or doctor.

A review is now under way focusing on where patients should be able to see a GP if they have an urgent out-of-hours health need. There are presently three centres: near the A&E department at Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI); near the A&E department at Airedale General Hospital and a limited service at the front of Eccleshill Community Hospital.

Health chiefs are considering two options: increasing appointments at BRI and Airedale but closing the service at Eccleshill. Or, alternatively continue providing the same service at both hospitals and continue to provide a limited service in the community – although this may not be at Eccleshill.

They say evidence shows the Eccleshill service is under-used compared to the two other sites.

Mike Edmondson, head of primary care planning and strategy at NHS Airedale, Bradford and Leeds, said: “We want to provide services that are delivered from the locations which are the most convenient and accessible to the majority of people. This engagement process gives people the chance to tell us what they think of the proposals to improve urgent care services right across the district. “

To find out more visit www.bradford.nhs.uk/get-involved/current-consultations/urgent-care for details and to complete an electronic reply form; or call the patient advice and liaison service (PALS) on 01274 237555.