Victoria Charleston calls for proper local health services

The Liberal Democrats have called for a return to proper local health services, after new figures revealed a fall in the number of GPs in Salisbury and South Wiltshire while patient numbers rise.

The analysis shows that there are now an eye-watering 2,100 patients for every GP in the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Area. This is up by 12% since 2016.

At the last election, the Conservative party promised to recruit more GPs. However, today’s analysis reveals there are now almost 2,000 fewer fully qualified GPs in England compared to 2016.  

Locally, we have seen a reduction in services at the Bemerton Heath surgery, in Wilton, and at Bishopdown Farm causing stress for residents trying to access help.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Salisbury and South Wiltshire, Victoria Charleston said:

“We need a return to proper local health services. Families just want to be able to call their surgery and get an appointment without being in a queue of 39 people. Years of Conservative Government neglect has caused a GP shortage crisis, leaving people unable to see their local doctor when they need to." 

“Liberal Democrats would ensure people receive a GP appointment within one week so people can get the care they deserve. Boosting GP numbers would not only help people get appointments, it would reduce pressure on our hospitals and paramedics, saving crucial time and money elsewhere in the NHS.”