Appointments FAQ

The way we access GP services has changed. Below are some frequently asked questions that may help you understand these changes:

How do I get an appointment?

Please follow our guidelines within our Appointments page to choose the right service. An appointment may not be necessary.

What is eConsult?

eConsult

eConsult lets you contact your GP by completing a quick form which is reviewed by the practice. After reviewing your query, you will be directed toward the most appropriate help. This might be advice on self-help, pharmacy advice, an appointment with one of the practice clinical team or another service. Your data is secure at all times - including during a video consultation or telephone call.

Visit our eConsult page for further information.

Image of eConsult

What if I do not have access to a smartphone or web camera?

We understand that not everyone has a smartphone or web camera for a video consultation.

We can still talk to you on your mobile phone or landline.

Will I need to wear a face mask if I come into my practice for an appointment?

The rules regarding face masks have been relaxed and it is now a matter of personal choice whether you wear one or not.

You can find additional information by visiting the government's website

How do I cancel or move a booked appointment?

If you need to cancel your appointment please give us as much notice as possible. This allows us to offer your appointment to someone else. 

If you are cancelling please telephone us on 01732 770088 as soon as possible. We ask that this is at least 30 minutes before your appointment time. This will enable us to offer your appointment to someone else.

You can cancel your appointment online using Patient Access or The NHS App if you are signed up to the service.

Visit our Cancel Appointment page for further information.

What if I am not registered with a GP practice?

You can call any GP surgery to get emergency treatment if you are not registered with a GP or are away from home.

If your treatment will last longer than 14 days, you need to register as a temporary/permanent resident. You can find more information about this on the NHS website.

If you need to register with a practice, you will need to live within its geographical boundaries. You can check a GP practice boundary by visiting their website. You can also find a GP on the NHS website.

You will need to contact the practice to register with them by calling or visiting their website.

You will need to fill out a registration form. Once it is completed and returned, NHS England will transfer your medical records to your new practice. They will also write to you to confirm your registration with your chosen practice.

What do I do if I think I have coronavirus (Covid-19)?

The main symptoms of coronavirus are:

  • high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
  • new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)
  • loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this means you’ve noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms then DO NOT visit your GP practice. You should visit NHS 111 or call NHS 111 if you cannot get help online.