We’ll make it quicker and easier to see a GP

Patients would be guaranteed prompt appointments with their GP under the Welsh Liberal Democrats’ plans, Kirsty Williams AM has announced today (17th).

Highlighting a key policy ahead of the Assembly elections, Kirsty Williams, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, said her party would introduce a fully funded Access to GPs scheme which will guarantee prompt appointments and extend opening hours where needed.

Under the Welsh Liberal Democrats’ plans, GP practices would be able to bid for funding to improve access however they feel best. The party would initially allocate £10 million in support of the fund. The bidding process would be overseen by NHS Wales, who would assess applications. The party would ensure that schemes which offer the most innovative services and which can be best replicated would be targeted for support, in order to spread best practice.

This is the third part of the Welsh Liberal Democrats’ 3 point plan for the NHS, which also includes safe staffing levels and better mental health services.

Speaking ahead of a visit to a GP Practice in Penarth, Kirsty Williams AM said:

“Time and time again we hear of how people struggle to get an appointment with their GP.

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats will guarantee the best treatment at the right time to meet every patient’s needs.

“We’ll invest in an Access to GPs scheme to ensure prompt appointments and extend GP opening hours to evenings and weekends where there is a local need.

“People want to be able to access their GP when it’s convenient for them. For too long, patients’ views have been side-lined.

“After 17 years in office, the Labour government still fails to get the basics right on our public services. Our plans put patients’ views front and centre so that we will deliver a NHS that works for you.”