Issue - meetings

Members received the COVID Recovery in General Practice: Healthwatch Harrow and Harrow Primary Care Summit presentation.

The health and care system in Harrow, along with the rest of the country, was experiencing very high demand for services.  This was being driven by a number of factors: a backlog of patients not accessing services over the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic period, who were now coming forward for services, many with conditions that were more complex because of a delay in seeking treatment; continued responsibilities of health and care services in the Covid-19 response; ongoing treatment for patients with Covid-19 and post Covid-19 conditions and ongoing delivering of the vaccination programme; and the ongoing needed to ensure effective infection and prevention control measures which has an impact of the model of care delivery.

The Second Quarter (Q2) Trend Analysis Reports would be produced in mid-October, with more detailed information.  However, three key themes were emerging: poor levels of GP access; knock on effect at A&E (6 to 7 hour waits were now common); and impact on staff working conditions and morale. Patients had found it increasingly difficult to secure appointments, with congested telephones and generally longer waiting times reported.  Those using online services are marginally more satisfied, however the overall rate remains below 50%.

RESOLVED: That the Report be noted.