PCL formed a collaboration with Derbyshire Health United CIC and Phoenix Healthcare Partnership to provide an Enhanced Access service for Melton, Syston and Vale, Rutland and Salutem Primary Care Networks.  The service went live on 1st October 2022 and will run until 31st March 2024.

The service involves the supply of GPs, Advanced Practitioners, Practice Nurses and Health Care Assistants.  GPs provide remote telephone appointments on weekdays during the hours of 18.30-20.00.  Face-to-face nursing appointments are provided on a Saturday, between the hours of 09.00-17.00.  These clinics have predominantly consisted of Phlebotomy, Cervical Cytology and Minor Illness.  We meet regularly with our Primary Care Networks in order to refine requirements.

This is a unique and innovative working arrangement as each partner organisation brings skills and expertise to the service.  PCL is responsible for the project and financial management of the scheme.  We also supply site managers who are responsible for opening and closing the GP premises at weekends (so PCNs do not have to fulfil this function).  We also provide the central booking team, who are responsible for making and cancelling patient appointments.

Derbyshire Health United CIC are responsible for the human resources element of the scheme, the rota management system and supplying clinical staff to support the service.  Phoenix Healthcare Partnership are responsible for leading on clinical governance, supporting the on-the-day clinical delivery of the scheme and supplying clinical staff to deliver the service.

Patient feedback concerning the service has been excellent, with high patient satisfaction.  77% of patients would recommend the service to a friend or family member.  76% of patients were “extremely satisfied” with their recent out of hours appointment.