Workshops aim to explore approaches to GP services

A SERIES of workshops starting later this month will explore how general medical practice in the region is running.

Members of the public are invited to attend these sessions and contribute to discussions about what is important, and how provision of GP services can be sustained and developed.

Linda Bunney, head of primary care development at NHS Dumfries and Galloway is encouraging as many people as possible to attend the events this month.

She said: “These events are a chance for patients and communities to influence how care is delivered locally, and we hope people will come along and get involved.

“We would encourage anyone with an interest in taking part to do so, but note that people must be registered in advance and able to attend the entire session from the very start.”

The events take place as follows:

• Wednesday, August 20, early evening, Castle Douglas
• Wednesday, September 3, early evening, Annan
• Tuesday September 9 , early evening, Newton Stewart
• Thursday September 11, morning, Dumfries

To allow GPs and practice teams to attend, GP practices in the participating areas will close for the afternoon. Urgent care will remain available during these periods, with information provided to anyone who telephones a practice.

Dr Lisa Corrie, a GP taking part in the programme, added : “These workshops give us space to think creatively and work together.

“I very much hope that people from across our communities get involved, and are able to help us to consider ways to help ensure general practice is something we can all rely on in the years ahead.”

For more information about the workshops visit: www.nhsdg.co.uk/general-medical-services-review/