I went down to the Longton Health Centre, Lancashire and met the amazing team of NHS staff there. They have worked hugely hard during the pandemic but sadly are reporting a big increase in patients believing there isn't any face to face appointments available, some becoming abusive with staff due to this misconception.
Like other surgeries in Leyland, Penwortham, Longton & New Longton I have visited in the last couple of months, they're open, and actually seeing more patients face to face than before the pandemic started.
The fab team at Longton have been innovating to deal with covid, you don't only have to have a face to face GP appointment.
You can now book in different ways online, through the MyGP app and by phone, although as always the lines can be busy first thing in the morning.
I met a really great team, fighting for us and each other, a bit hurt by what some people are saying to them after they have worked so hard in the pandemic, with another difficult winter to come.
Thank you, Sara and the brilliant team, for everything you're doing.
Surgeries across South Ribble are there for us, treasure them, treat them as you would want to be treated - and from me a BIG THANKYOU to all GP staff for your commitment, passion & dedication.
Longton Health Centre, Lancashire St Mary's Medical Group Leyland Surgery
