NUMBERS of patients contacting an MP over problems accessing face to face GP appointments is continuing to grow, despite the country easing restrictions.

Shipley MP Philip Davies, whose constituency includes Menston and Burley-in-Wharfedale, said people who want to see a GP face to face should be allowed, but is being told by some of his constituents, many still face barriers.

He said: “Covid led to backlogs in appointments at hospitals with many routine operations and appointments having to be cancelled. It cannot be allowed to create another health crisis in GP practice. We know GPs are doing an excellent job rolling out the vaccine programme but I am repeatedly being told accessing face to face appointments is a struggle.

“Many people prefer speaking to a GP in person as they can guarantee confidentiality, and others are saying they believe they need to be examined and should not be being diagnosed via a telephone consultation or video appointment.”

Mr Davies said the problem did not refer to one specific practice in the constituency but correspondence related to numerous practices. He will be speaking with ministers at the Department of Health and health officials in the area to discuss the issues raised.

Mr Davies added: “The change to remote consulting was based on Government’s instructions for infection control purposes and to keep patients safe at the start of the pandemic. As we move through it and learn to live with it, my constituents are frustrated the service they were used to has not resumed.

“While I understand many routine issues can be dealt with on the phone, there will be things being missed or not picked up on because a patient is not directly in front of that GP. Doctors themselves have told me how important non-verbal cues are.”

Dr James Thomas, a GP in the Bradford district who heads up the Bradford District and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group, said GP practices are “working harder than ever and offering more appointments than ever before” while ensuring staff and patients are safe.

He said this is done through an initial phone or video assessment followed by an in-person appointment where appropriate.

“Feedback shows that for some people the increasing flexibility offered by remote appointments helps them access care in a convenient way,” Dr Thomas said.

“However we understand the frustration of patients who are unable to get an appointment of any type due to the current demand facing health and care services."