This is not surprising given recent reports advising that hospital referrals in our region have declined by 25% — placing increasing pressure back onto general practice. So please bear with us!

We do have processes in place to manage urgent issues arising on the day; however, wait times for routine appointments are becoming significantly longer.

Unfortunately, there are only so many appointments available each day, and our GPs are already working extended hours and often going without breaks to try and meet demand.

A gentle reminder to please prioritise the main issues you need to discuss with the GP during your appointment. We are seeing a sharp increase in patients attempting to address up to 10 concerns within a standard 15-minute consultation.

Please also book appointments as early as possible if you have been advised to follow up — particularly for medication reviews or repeat prescriptions.

Reminder that Dr Foster, Dr Harris, and Dr Brenda all have permanent locum support working alongside them, so you may be offered an appointment with another clinician if your usual practitioner is fully booked.

We genuinely appreciate your patience and understanding during this busy period, and we hope you all enjoy the long weekend — fingers crossed the sunshine sticks around!