Dr recommends seating GPs near to phones

Date: 11/01/2012

GP surgeries looking to improve the handling of patient calls may want to take note of one doctor's comments.

As well as investing in 0300 numbers, practices may be inspired to follow Dr Knut Schroeder's lead and station a medical expert near to the reception area.

In an interview with Pulse, the health specialist explained how his surgery decided to seat a GP close to the front desk so they are "immediately available".

This way they can answer patient telephone queries, issue sick notes and sign prescriptions, which Dr Schroeder claimed makes the practice more efficient.

"Initially we thought we were quite a well-organised practice. However, there were ongoing problems with access and getting work done in time, with less and less time available," the expert remarked.

Changing surgery contact details to 0300 numbers could help improve patient satisfaction, as they are low cost to call from both a landline and mobile phone.