PATIENTS at a Basingstoke GP practice expressed their frustrations over new changes that have been brought in, at a meeting chaired by the town’s MP.

On Saturday, July 16, MP Maria Miller hosted a meeting with patients at The Beggarwood Surgery, coordinated with the Beggarwood Patient Participation Group.

READ MORE: REVEALED: The best and worst GP surgeries in Basingstoke as rated by patients in NHS survey

The surgery is part of the Camrose, Gillies and Hackwood (CGH) Partnership and has had new management in place since February.

Ms Miller asked the GPs now leading the practice, along with senior representatives from Operose – the American health firm which runs the surgery – to provide an update on how the surgery is operating and answer questions.

Ms Miller said: “Saturday’s meeting demonstrated the frustration some residents have with the changes that have been put in place, and the urgent need for more, clearer communication with patients on a regular basis.”

However, she said it was clear that the medical professionals in charge are “trying to move heaven and earth to deliver the best for our community” adding: “They need our support to help make those changes happen".

Claire Osborne, practice manager at The Beggarwood Surgery, in Broadmere Road, said: "Saturday's meeting was a great opportunity to speak directly with our patients outside of their GP surgery.

“I know there was some frustration in the room, but we did appreciate the chance to explain in more detail how we work and the improvements we are putting in place. “It was clear that everyone wants CGH to do well, which is why so many people took time out of their weekend to come and talk to us."

Mrs Miller said it was clear from the meeting that the surgery is “experiencing a significant increase in demand for appointments, at a time when GPs are in short supply nationally”.

She added: “The practice is using app-based technology and telemedicine to increase its capacity, as well as taking on more GPs and using an additional, diverse range of qualified health professionals too.”

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