Shropshire Star comment: Missed GP appointments cause for concern
The number of missed GP appointments across the region is a significant cause for concern.
Hundreds of thousands of appointments were missed over the last year, and in many cases health bosses were not given the notice required to invite other patients.
In some parts of the region, as many as one in 14 appointments are missed each day, with the overall cost to the taxpayer in the West Midlands running into tens of millions of pounds.
See also:
This is nothing short of scandalous. Our NHS needs to look after every penny, yet by failing to turn up to appointments patients are placing a huge and unnecessary burden on health bosses. It is deeply frustrating for GPs, nurses and therapists, many of whom are already dealing with lengthy patient lists.
We understand that there are many reasons for non-attendance, such as underlying mental health issues or difficulties with transport.
But the fact is that this problem has been around for years – and the situation is getting worse.
It is so bad that in some quarters calls are being made to charge patients for appointments, a move that would fundamentally change one of the core principles of the NHS, namely that access is free at the point of need.
Those in favour of such a drastic – and widely unpopular – measure, should bear in mind that the cost of implementing the scheme would almost certainly outweigh any benefits, financial or otherwise.
In recent years GP practices have done their best to ensure patients are aware of their appointments by sending reminders by text and email or making use of new surgery apps.
But what is desperately needed is a mechanism enabling surgeries to target patients who regularly miss appointments. In this way, GPs could offer the right support and reduce the number of missed appointments.
Sadly, this is something that would come at a cost which at things stand, the NHS simply cannot afford to bear.
For patients, the message is simple. If you cannot attend an appointment, let your GP practice know as soon as possible.
+++
There is no doubt that the proposed road linking the M54 and the M6 will play a crucial role in reducing congestion in the area.
The dual carriageway, which is expected to cost £200 million if approved, will ease the gridlock on the A449 and the A5, while also taking around 22,000 vehicles off the A460 each day.
See also:
While these plans are broadly welcomed, there are issues which need to be ironed out over the next 12 months before construction is scheduled to begin.
Concerns about noise pollution and the proximity of the road to homes must be addressed, with residents in a number of villages likely to be affected. Highways England insists that the plans will include measures to limit noise, including installing noise-barriers and planting hedgerows and trees.
On paper at least, the new route will provide a vital connection to the M6 in both directions. It will also improve links for all motorists using road in the area.
However, for it to be a success, guarantees need to be put in place to ensure nearby communities are prioritised.
