PATIENTS across Teignbridge and the rest of south Devon have given their GPs and practices a healthy pat on the back, judging their services above the national average.
Findings have been revealed in NHS England’s GP patient survey which showed that 89 per cent of those quizzed reckoned their practice was good, compared to 85 per cent nationally.
Some 96 per cent had confidence in their GP – one percentage point above the UK average.
Dr John Whitehead, the CCG’s clinical lead for primary care, said: ‘We are very proud of the work GPs do locally – and we’re pleased that the public feel the same way.
‘GPs are often the first point of contact for patients, and they have an important role in patient management, providing ongoing care and treatment for those with chronic diseases.’
He added: ‘We all aim to make patients’ experience as positive as possible. We will continue to work hard to maintain the high levels of patient care.’
When asked if patients were able to get an appointment to see a GP or nurse when they wanted to, 89 per cent said they could. The national average was four points lower.
The figure dipped further when patients were asked how easy it was to get through to their GP surgery on the phone – 74 per cent – although still higher than the national average of 70 per cent.
Dr Whitehead said: ‘It’s to the credit of local general practices that while demand and difficulties in recruitment are increasing, all the indicators in the survey show that south Devon satisfaction rates are above the national average.
‘However, there are some measures where it appears to be becoming harder to stay above the national average, and others where there is considerable variation at practice level.
‘The CCG will be looking to work with practices to address any specific identified issues in this regard.’