An independent survey has revealed that respondents in Dorset have highly rated their overall experiences at local GP practices.

The GP Patient Survey, conducted annually by Ipsos Mori and published by NHS England, gathered feedback from 8,985 individuals across Dorset on various aspects of their healthcare journey, including access to GPs, appointment-making, quality of care, COVID-19 response, and satisfaction with opening hours and out-of-hours services.

From the extensive responses received, Dorset practices stood out with impressive scores that were higher than the national average in most areas.

  • 80% of respondents described their experience of their GP practice as good.
  • 88% expressed that the help received from receptionists at their local practice was helpful.
  • 73% reported that finding information and accessing services on their practice website was easy.
  • 90% felt that their healthcare professional was good at listening to them.
  • 87% felt that healthcare professionals recognized and understood their mental health needs.
  • 94% stated that they were actively involved in decisions regarding their care or treatment.
  • 93% agreed that their needs were met during their last appointment.
  • 96% expressed confidence in the healthcare professionals they interacted with.

Dr Forbes Watson, Lyme Regis GP and Chair of the Dorset General Practice Alliance commended the level of positive responses amid the immense pressure and growing demand faced by GP practices.

“Thank you to all the incredible general practice staff across the county, for your dedication, compassion and expertise. These results show your efforts and commitment to providing exceptional care makes a world of difference to the lives of so many people in Dorset.

“From the doctors and nurses, to the physiotherapists, paramedics, healthcare assistants, receptionists and social prescribers. To everyone working in the general practice teams now. Your collective work is vital in providing comprehensive, holistic care. We are grateful of the impact you make in improving the health and wellbeing of the people in Dorset.

“Thank you to the public for your continuous support and valuable feedback that aids in refining the general practice services that we provide.”

For more information, you can visit the GP Patient Survey data publications at gp-patient.co.uk.