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Thumbs up for GPs
Family doctors in Dacorum have been given a clean bill of health by patients in a survey.
A total of 75 per cent were completely satisfied with the treatment they received and 86 per cent had 'trust and confidence' in their GP.
Of the people taking part, 93 per cent said the doctor listened carefully to what they said, putting West Herts Primary Care Trust (PCT) among the top fifth in the country.
The survey was carried out by the Healthcare Commission and 483 patients filled in questionnaires.
However, problems were highlighted with making appointments and getting help to give up smoking.
A quarter of patients could not book an appointment three days in advance and 27 per cent could not get one within a target time of two days.
At the clinic 88 per cent of patients were not told how long they would have to wait.
And when referred to a specialist 72 per cent said the new doctor did not have all the necessary information, putting the PCT in the bottom fifth in the country.
The PCT was also in the bottom 20 per cent for patients offered help giving up smoking.
Andrew Parker, director of primary care at the PCT, said appointments would become easier when the new health centre opened in Hemel Hempstead next year.
"Many practices in west Hertfordshire are or will soon be offering extended opening hours," he said.
"Access to appointments is something that the PCT is addressing immediately in a range of ways.
"These include opening a GP-led health centre in Hemel Hempstead offering services to all patients in west Hertfordshire.
"The new health centre is due to open its doors in spring 2009 and will complement existing services provided by local GPs, not replace them."
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Weather for Hemel Hempstead
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
