A NEW face-to-face consultation GP service has launched in Basingstoke.

Private hospital The Hampshire Clinic, in Old Basing, is offering the new service as part of a wider project to enhance and expand the facilities on offer to patients across the community.

The new GP service launched on Monday, February 5 when patients can book either online or by calling the hospital directly.

Basingstoke Gazette: The Hampshire ClinicThe Hampshire Clinic, part of Circle Health Group, is offering the service to reduce the demand on primary care in Basingstoke.

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A statement from the hospital said: “With access to primary care at an all-time high there is an increased demand from patients across Hampshire. The demands on primary care services in Basingstoke are at an all-time high with a shortage of GPs being one of the main reasons for delays in getting appointments and access to treatment.”

It added: “GP services are an essential component in the patient's pathway. Failing to get a proper diagnosis or proper triaging can often leave patients failing important pre-assessments. The result of such failings only delays the patients care further and ultimately makes waiting times worse.”

The face-to-face 20-minutes appointments will be available for £150, with further time available for an additional fee.

Follow-up appointments are available where appropriate and can be discussed with the GP directly. The two GPs at The Hampshire Clinic will be able to support patients looking for general health advice, check-ups, and tests.

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Additionally, the enhanced primary care offering at the hospital will also support patients needing treatment for minor, acute, and chronic illnesses.

Following the consultation, should the patient require further support, a referral can be made directly to one of the specialist consultants, removing the potential for lengthy waits.

There are plans in place to expand the service throughout 2024, with two more GPs joining the hospital in the coming months.

Commenting on the new GP service, Heather Dob, executive director of The Hampshire Clinic said: “The private GP service represents a significant addition to what we can offer patients in Basingstoke, Hampshire and surrounding areas. It will allow patients to see a GP face to face with easy access to any diagnostic tests, scans under one roof or onward referrals that may be required.

“At a time when primary care services are in increased demand, the launch of the new service at The Hampshire Clinic, represents our commitment to ensuring that patients across our community have access to the facilities and services they need.”