‘Total triage’ Service - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: ‘Total triage’ Service – A NEW GP pay deal and a shift to “total triage” will transform the way health care is delivered in mid and south Essex.

'Total triage’ Service - A NEW GP pay deal and a shift to "total triage" will transform the way health care is delivered in mid and south Essex.

A NEW GP pay deal and a shift to “total triage” will transform the way health care is delivered in mid and south Essex.

The changes, welcomed by NHS Mid and South Essex, aim to change the well-known 8am telephone scramble for GP appointments.

A new “total triage” system, set to be adopted form October 2025, involves screening all patient requests to ensure that the most urgent cases are prioritised and that everyone receives timely care.

Dr Taz Syed, a GP partner at Leigh’s Pall Mall Surgery, explained: “Total triage has transformed the traditional doctor’s surgery – it has been a game changer.

“Patients can contact their GP practice online – usually at a more convenient time for them – and provide a few details about their health concern.

“All the forms are reviewed by a triaging GP or other senior health professional to ensure patients get to see the most appropriate healthcare professional based on their clinical needs.”

The system aims to make the best use of healthcare resources, reduce unnecessary visits, and ensure safety for both patients and staff.

Dr Syed sought to assure patients that those without digital access will still be accommodated.

He said: “We are asking people, if they can, to contact their practice online via their surgery’s website or via the NHS App.

“But we understand not everyone has access to these services, so we will still be available by phone or in-person.”

Picture: Dr Syed, a GP partner at Leigh’s Pall Mall Surgery (Image: Mid and South Essex).

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