Bid to keep A&E units for emergencies only

Busy doctors’ surgeries across Sunderland are asking patients, who may be waiting longer than usual to speak to their GP, not to go to A&E unless it is a major emergency.

The plea to be patient when contacting their GP practice was issued earlier this week on behalf of the city’s health chiefs.

Dr Ian Pattison, Sunderland GP and Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) Clinical Chair, said: “GP practices are open and it is really important that people continue to put their health first and seek medical help when they need it.

“However, since moving to the telephone first system, the volume of calls both in and out of practices has increased dramatically and we know that many patients are finding it increasingly frustrating having to wait longer than usual for their calls to be answered or returned.

“GPs are all trying to attend to patients as soon as they possibly can and we are asking people to please be patient and not go to A&E while they are waiting, unless it is a real emergency.

“And for patients waiting to hear about re-arranged hospital appointments, please do not call your GP practice or hospital for more information – you will be contacted by hospital staff as soon as possible.”

Dr Pattison added: “Anyone who is acutely unwell and requires immediate assessment and treatment will be seen by A&E, but others will be re-directed to more appropriate services if they just turn up.

“Please remember think pharmacy, GP and NHS111 first and keep A&E free for serious emergencies only.”