Extended opening hours at your Primary Care Network (PCN)
Groups of GP practices in Leeds are working together as PCNs to extend opening times for patients.
Brief description of project
GP practices in Leeds work together as ‘Primary Care Networks’ (PCNs). Working in this way allows GP practices located close to one another to share staff and provide a wider range of services to patients. Read more about PCNs in Leeds here: https://www.healthandcareleeds.org/health/primary-care-services/gp-services/
In Leeds, our PCNs have been offering evening and weekend appointments (Extended Access) for several years https://www.healthandcareleeds.org/health/primary-care-services/gp-services/extended-access/.
From 1 October 2022, PCNs will be contractually required to provide enhanced access between the hours of 6:30pm and 8pm Mondays to Fridays and between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays.
This engagement uses patient feedback to shape PCN plans for extended access. The Integrated Care Board (ICB) in Leeds is supporting this work by providing existing insight and guidance to PCNs.
Who did we speak to?
We spoke to PCNs in Leeds who used feedback from patients and carers to develop their plans
What and how did we ask?
PCNs wanted to know what people think about extended access. This includes the days and times people want to use GP services. PCNs will use existing insight into people’s needs and preferences from local surveys and feedback.
What will we do?
The PCN are using this information about their local population (data) and feedback from patients and carers to plan their extended access services. Each GP practice will outline their findings and plans on their website so that patients can see how their views have been used to shape extended access. Where there are gaps in knowledge, PCNs might carry out local surveys with patients or specific communities.
How can you help?
GP practices are busy right now. You can help us by contacting your GP if you need to cancel an appointment.
We can’t improve health and care without your help. Join the Leeds Involving You network to find out more about our work and get involved
Get in touch
If you have any questions about this involvement please contact Adam Stewart on [email protected] or 0113 221 7777.