Plans to improve access to urgent healthcare in Sheffield
There are big new plans to make it easier to get an urgent GP appointment in Sheffield, after people told health bosses they're having to resort to A&E when they need treatment quickly.
NHS Sheffield CCG say people have told them the current system's confusing and hard to access urgently.
They're now consulting on a number of ideas to make sure patients can be seen within 24 hours if they have an illness or injury which is urgent but not life-threatening.
They want GP surgeries working together more - that means you might be sent to another practice if you need an apppointment quickly.
There are plans for two new urgent treatment centres in the city too which would offer care for minor illnesses and injuries.
Patients could also be assessed over the phone and directed to the right service.
Dr Tim Moorhead - who's the Chair of NHS Sheffield CCG - says it's important:
“This consultation is about improving access to urgent health care for people across the city – that’s for minor injuries and illnesses that need dealing with quickly.
“It is not about A&E departments - but sensibly we believe the options will take the pressure of these departments so they can concentrate their efforts and resources on people with life-threatening conditions.
“We have looked at what patients have told us, listened to our colleagues in health and taken on board national requirements."
The ideas are out for public consultation until mid December - you can have you say here.