What is a Primary Care Network?
Primary Care Networks (PCN) are group of GP practices working closely together, aligned to other health and social care staff and organisations, providing integrated services to their local population. A PCN covers a patient population, of 30,000 – 50,000 patients, although by approval of the commissioner, this may be lower in rural and remote areas, and higher where it is appropriate.
Our PCN Includes:
Self Referral form for Social Prescribing Appointment – Social Prescriber Referral Form – Fill in form
What can you expect from your PCN?
Our PCN is known as the SS9 South PCN and comprises two practices (Highlands Surgery and Pall Mall Surgery). Additional healthcare professionals are being recruited to work on behalf of Primary Care Networks. New roles include Emergency Care Practitioners, Clinical Pharmacists, Mental Health professionals and Social Prescribing Link Workers. By introducing a greater skill mix, local people will get more access to the support they need to keep people healthy and independent.
The aim is to deliver better health outcomes for the local population, as well as a reduction in health inequalities.
In the future, we will also see doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals working collectively to try to anticipate a patient’s needs, with stronger emphasis on preventative medicine.
Extended Access
Additional appointments will be available from 7am to 8pm on weekdays and from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays.
Please note that out-of-hours appointments may not take place at your usual GP surgery. When you book, you will be informed of the location of your appointment.
These appointments are not available as walk-ins and must be booked in advance.
To book an extended access or out-of-hours appointment, please contact your usual GP practice in the normal way. They will advise you on available appointment times and which healthcare professional is most suitable to help you.
If you need to cancel an out-of-hours appointment, please contact your surgery. If your appointment is on a Saturday, cancellations should be made by calling 07513 094494 (cancellation only).
If you need medical help now but it’s not an emergency, you can also use 111 online or call 111.