WEDNESDAY, 3 AUGUST, 2016

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New model of care at Forfar GP surgery

GP partners at Forfar’s Academy Medical Centre are delighted to announce the launch of a new model of care that will see a change in the way family doctor services are delivered.

A patient survey undertaken last year identified that what patients value most from their family doctor is continuity of care and timely access to a health professional when they need it, especially when they have a long-term condition or an ongoing acute illness.

In response, the practice set about redesigning its service to offer patients better continuity with named health care providers and care coordination through small team working.

Dr Kay MacCallum, a GP at Academy Medical Centre, said, “I am delighted to announce that we are launching a new model of care at the centre from Monday, 15 August.

“This has been in the planning for some time and, thanks to continuing funding from the Scottish Government and support from colleagues at NHS Tayside, we are now in a position to launch our exciting new care model.

“Patients will be allocated to one of five small teams, each aiming to deliver tailored care to meet the needs of individuals and families.

“Coordinating care in this way will offer patients continuity with a group of healthcare providers that they will get to know well.

“We will also be extending the range of services available to patients at Academy Medical Centre to support mental, emotional and social issues, with the aim of helping people to live well at home.”

Academy Medical Centre has been undergoing a transition phase in preparation for the new care model which has involved upgrading the premises and interim arrangements to deal with patient calls.

Dr MacCallum said, “It is fair to say the transition phase has been challenging for staff and for patients, and we’d like to thank all concerned for their patience and cooperation during this time.

“We will be writing to patients to advise how to access the new service and what to expect when they call the centre.

“Our new model heralds a very different way of delivering the service that we hope will improve patients’ experience and build a sustainable family doctor service in Forfar.”

Information and updates are available on the practice website www.academymedicalcentre.co.uk and in the surgery waiting area.

Contact:

Gaynyr Dickson

NHS Tayside Communications

01382 740716