MAJOR changes to how routine doctors' appointments are booked in Hereford are being rolled out at a time when the "NHS is in crisis".

Hereford Medical Group (HMG), which runs surgeries including Station Medical Centre in the city, said that all routine GP appointment requests, submitted online, will be triaged by a doctor.

The group said no GP appointments will be booked by our reception team unless directed by the triaging doctor.

OTHER NEWS:

HMG said it had listened to patient feedback and was looking at different ways to improve the experience.

Anyone with a problem that requires medical attention the same day will still get help on the day as the new changes are for routine matters only.

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Changes will take effect from Tuesday, January 17.

How do I book a GP appointment at Hereford Medical Group now?

Patients will be asked to submit requests using the online triage form via the Hereford Medical Group website.

Anyone without access to the internet can call or visit Hereford Medical Group and a receptionist will complete it with the patient.

OTHER NEWS:

The forms will be reviewed by the clinical team, and the appropriate action will be offered within five working days of the form being received.

HMG, which also runs Bobblestock Surgery, Quay House Medical Centre and Credenhill Surgery, said it would be able to stop asking patients to call back because we are full to capacity.

"We are excited and hopeful this will make a difference to you, at a time when the NHS is in crisis," HMG said.

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