Extending Access through ExtraCare
As a Wave 2 GP Access Fund pilot site, CBC mobilised extended access (ExtraCare) in Autumn of 2015, providing additional GP and Nurse appointments to General Practices in Gateshead. A choice of daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available providing a greater range of services to patients, making a significant contribution to the resilience of General Practice.
Since its commencement, over 28,000 patients have been seen by ExtraCare, including an additional 4,604 home visiting GP hours A survey earlier this year found that almost all GPs working in ExtraCare felt that 15 minute appointments were appropriate. 75% stated that access to the full patient record via Emis was extremely beneficial. 4 out of 5 patients are likely or extremely likely to recommend the service to Friends and Family.
ExtraCare operates between 8 am - 8pm Monday to Friday, and between 9 am and 2 pm at weekends from sites at Blaydon PCC and Central Gateshead. If you are interested in finding out more about the service, or you are a GP/nurse wishing to work in ExtraCare, please contact Louise Keeler, Urgent & Unscheduled Care Manager on 0191 4455862, or by Email: l.keeler@nhs.net
