Huddersfield GPs offering extra appointments this winter

Doctors from practices across Huddersfield are joining together to help cope with the increase in demand that NHS services experience at this time of year.

To make sure that local people can access the services they need NHS Greater Huddersfield Clinical Commissioning Group has invested in additional GP clinics to provide appointments between 11am and 2pm each Saturday and on selected Sundays and bank holidays until 16 April 2016.

Anybody who feels they need to see a GP over a weekend or bank holiday with something urgent that can’t wait should ring NHS 111 to speak to a specially trained advisor. The advisor will be able to talk about the health problem and confirm whether a GP appointment is the most appropriate service for a patient’s needs.

Local GP and CCG Clinical Chair Steve Ollerton said “There is always extra pressure on A&E services during the winter, so if you feel unwell, but your case is not an emergency, please consider other ways you can get advice from your local NHS services. We have increased the number of GP appointments available locally, so if you need to see a GP over a weekend or bank holiday just call NHS111.”

Doctors are also reminding patients that local pharmacists have a wealth of experience and knowledge that can be accessed for free in the community.  No appointment is needed, many are open for sessions during the festive period and some have private consultation areas, so they are a good first port of call.  Pharmacists can treat the majority of common complaints such as back pain, coughs, colds, flu and sore throats and will tell you if you need further medical attention.

The opening times for pharmacies across Kirklees during the festive period can be found on the CCG website at www.greaterhuddersfieldccg.nhs.uk .

The scheme is being piloted in this area and a full evaluation will take place next year to inform future winter plans.