Op COURAGE – Mental health support for veterans

Our practice is working to improve continuity of care, but what does this mean for you?-At this practice, we believe you will get the most effective care if you have a strong relationship with your Doctor. Seeing the same person when you attend is one way of strengthening that relationship and we are working hard to make sure that is possible.

Why are we doing this?-Over the past few years, there has been lots of publicity about how important it is to see your doctor quickly, but there is also lots of evidence that seeing the same person is just as important as seeing someone rapidly.

What sort of evidence?-If you see the same person, or small team of people, over a number of appointments then the levels of trust between you both are likely to grow. Studies have shown that increased trust leads to a better experience because patients are:

• more satisfied and more likely to have a good relationship with their GP
• less likely to have to go to A&E or be admitted to hospital
• more likely to follow the advice given and take positive steps to look after their own health
• more likely to receive good quality of care
• will not need to go to hospital as often

Are there any disadvantages?-It may be that sometimes we ask you to wait a little longer for for an appointment so we can make sure you see ‘your’ doctor. If you have an urgent problem, we will always make sure that you are seen as quickly as we can.