Hundreds of GPs have been recruited across the Frimley Health and Care area to support patients currently waiting for services.

Since 2019/20, the healthcare authority has said that their aim is to offer additional support and an expanded team in order to reduce waiting lists and aid GPs with the surgeries.

The team of professionals that have been welcomed across the region includes pharmacists, mental health practitioners, paramedics, and social prescribers.

Lalitha Iyer, the Chief Medical Officer for NHS Frimley Health said: said “Record numbers of people are seeking support from their GP practice, with teams across the country treating half a million more patients a week compared with before the pandemic. The NHS must adapt its services to match the increasing demand in a sustainable way.

“Not only have we been growing the teams within GP practices, but we have also been listening to feedback and making improvements to our systems. There are three ways you can contact your practice – online, on the phone and in person which is providing more choice. Phone lines have been improved; reducing waiting times, providing a clearer indication of place in the queue, and offering a call back option.

“We have also increased capacity, providing extended appointment times 8am-8pm and at weekends. Digital support like the NHS App is making it even easier to order repeat prescriptions and view your medical records.

Karl Goodhall, a paramedic practitioner at Princes Gardens Surgery in Aldershot said that ‘working as part of an integrated team ensures that the patient is receiving the most comprehensive service.

"I have been a paramedic for 22 years, beginning my career as a technician and moving through various levels of training to become a paramedic practitioner working in general practice,” Karl added.

“I love the variety of my work and the time that my role allows me to spend with patients who are often needing to see someone for a same day issue that needs assessment.

“We are able to offer so much more at the surgery now. I would urge people to be clear on their need when they contact their surgery so that we can assist them to get to the right member of the team and be seen quickly."