GENERAL practitioners in the county are now delivering nearly 4.7 million appointments a year, Dorset General Practice Alliance has said. 

The latest figures reveal a 14.5 per cent increase from two years ago, the alliance added. 

Dr Forbes Watson, chair of the Dorset General Practice Alliance, said a “record high in productivity” is down to the “dedication” of his colleagues and the growth of general practice surgery teams. 

Figures from the House of Commons Library based on NHS Digital data show 511 full-time-equivalent GPs were practising in the former NHS Dorset CCG area as of April.  

Of them, 415 were fully qualified, while the rest were still in training. 

This was more than the same time the previous year, when 507 GPs were working in the area, and slightly up on the levels in March 2019, when there were 510. 

Dr Watson said: “The increase of 600,000 extra appointments reflects the tireless hard work of my colleagues - from GPs, nurses, and healthcare assistants to our receptionists and all the practice staff who are at the frontline of our healthcare system. 

“We understand that face-to-face appointments are important for many patients.  

“It’s great to see that 78 per cent of all appointments are conducted in person.  

“For people who need urgent medical attention, data shows that that 37 per cent of all appointments are same-day or urgent, reflecting the commitment of general practice to timely and responsive care. 

“Surgeries are having to change and grow to better meet the needs of our community in Dorset.  

“We want to thank our patients who are embracing this change and being understanding. We want to provide accessible, timely, and compassionate care for all.” 

Dr Paul Johnson, chief medical officer from NHS Dorset, added GPs continue to be “extremely” busy as winter approaches. 

He said: “We want to encourage everyone to take advantage of the many services available that can help you to stay well this winter — whether it’s through vaccinations, using digital tools to manage long term conditions or taking advice on staying healthy during winter. 

“As winter pressures continue to build, patients should also consider a wide range of other available NHS services as an alternative to visiting a GP surgery or emergency department.  

“You can use NHS111 online at 111.nhs.uk, via the NHS App or by calling 111, if you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do.”