More patients are being seen at general practices in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes

Doctors’ surgeries in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes (BLMK) are seeing more patients than a year ago, according to new figures published by the NHS today (Monday 6 March).  The data, covering the period from November 2022 to January 2023, also reveal that more patients are seen face-to-face than during the same period a year ago.

The figures, collated by Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, show that almost 17,000 more appointments were offered at general practices in the three months to January 2023 than in the same period a year earlier.

In BLMK the percentage of local people whose appointments were face-to-face also increased, and for the same period, this stands at 80%, well above the England average of 69%.

Felicity Cox, Chief Executive Officer of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:

“I’m pleased to be able to report the progress our doctors’ surgeries are making.  Having access to the right health professional at the right time is a vital part of the patient experience, and our practices are making a determined effort to meet patients’ needs.  Not only are they offering more appointments, but many more of them are face-to-face too.

“Primary care is changing, and it’s now possible to see many different professionals at your local surgery. A whole range of expert clinicians in practices across BLMK are making sure more patients get appropriate help and support as soon as possible. This saves you time, and means GPs can concentrate on those patients who most need their knowledge and skills.

“We know it isn’t always easy to get an appointment when demand is high. We’re supporting our practices and working with residents to develop a sustainable primary care system that is fit for the future.”