The latest national GP Patient Survey (GPPS) highlights a positive patient experience across Gloucestershire’s GP practices, with an impressive 80% overall satisfaction rate — notably higher than the England average of 75%. This survey, conducted annually, assesses patients’ experiences on key areas such as trust in healthcare professionals, quality of care, appointment accessibility, response to requests, and appropriateness of scheduling.
Data at multiple levels — from individual practices to Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) — is available. In the One Gloucestershire ICS area, 20,809 questionnaires were distributed, with a 37% response rate from the 7,664 completed surveys.
Confidence and trust in Gloucestershire’s GP teams remain strong, with 94% of patients expressing trust, 89% feeling listened to during appointments, and 93% involved in decisions about their care. Additionally, 88% reported satisfaction with the care and concern shown by their practitioners.
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Dr Ananthakrishnan Raghuram MBE, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Gloucestershire, praised the high standards despite significant pressures: “These results showcase the dedication of GP teams working under demanding conditions to deliver excellent care. Practices have managed record levels of patient requests, despite staffing and financial constraints, embracing innovation and partnerships to maintain service quality.”
He also acknowledged that challenges remain: “Not all patients report a positive experience, with some facing longer waits for non-urgent appointments. We are committed to collaborating locally and nationally to alleviate pressures on GP services.”
Helen Goodey, Director of Primary Care and Place, echoed this sentiment, noting the unrelenting pressures in primary care and the importance of ongoing efforts to improve access and sustainability.
Dr Bob Hodges, Chair of Gloucestershire Local Medical Committee, highlighted the extraordinary efforts of GP teams, emphasizing that appointments have increased by over 25% since pre-pandemic levels — far outpacing funding increases. He affirmed the committee’s commitment to working alongside NHS Gloucestershire to adapt to community needs.
To further enhance patient experience, NHS Gloucestershire is advancing a long-term premises development plan. Five approved projects are underway, with three more funded, totaling approximately £53 million. These developments will benefit around 117,000 patients across the county.
Patients can explore individual practice results through an interactive search tool to see how their local surgeries performed in the survey.