Would you welcome the introduction of a polyclinic in your area?

The issue of polyclinics has been in the spotlight recently, and has attracted a degree of controversy. The proposals have welcomed by many patients and professionals, whilst for others they have provoked concern and criticism.

 

The proposed plans—which aim to provide a range of healthcare services under one roof—have been a major proposal of Health Minister Lord Darzi.

 

In July 2007 Lord Darzi was commissioned to lead a review of the NHS and to propose changes to bring healthcare in line with the needs of patients in the 21^st century. In his interim report, published in October 2007, the plans for the introduction of polyclinics were outlined.

 

The proposed clinics would reorganize the GP system and take over much of the work of local hospitals in providing secondary care services—for example, physiotherapy, chiropody, counselling, etc—in one building. This would be done with the aim of providing convenient, quick and accessible care. A range services and specialists from across a Primary Care Trust (PCT) would be concentrated within a sort of ‘super-practice’; a large centre where patients can have many health needs seen to.

Have Your Say

Have Your Say

Forums

> Private Insurance

> GP Services

> Out of Hours Care

> Dentistry

> Healthcare Associated Infections

> All Forums

Sign Up

If you would like to become a member of the Patients Association, simply enter your email address below.