As the BMA claim that GPs are seeing more patients and seeing them for longer, we want to know how this increased workload has affected your practice? Are you overwhelmed, should other parts of the health service shoulder more of the burden? Fill in the feedback box at the bottom of the article and leave your comments.

In the week that a report revealed that over 80% of patients feel that GP surgeries are open at times that suited them, the health secretary announced a new drive to improve access to GP services. “I want to see more convenient opening hours and more GPs in deprived and less well-served areas,” said Alan Johnson. Let us know how you feel about this new initiative by sending us your feedback, or taking part in our poll.

We reported on a recent study that claimed that patients are happier attending smaller surgeries. Does this mean the trend to merge practices should be rethought or are there benefits in having large-scale practices? Join the debate and leave your feedback.

Another interesting story covered trials enabling patients to book appointments via their digital TV remote. Is this proof that the profession is embracing technology, or is there a danger of practices being overwhelmed by patients booking appointments remotely? If you’ve been involved in the trial, or have any thoughts on the subject, then write in and let us know what you think.

And finally, I’d like to remind you that we have two more of our popular Events coming up. As well as being AMSPAR accredited, both Events are recognised by the Institute of Healthcare Management. The first, takes place in London at the Business Design Centre (5 September), at which IHM President, Professor Gerry McSorley, will deliver the keynote on address. If you can’t make it to the capital, then I hope to see you at the final Event of the year at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham on 10 October, where Dr Dennis Cox, NHS Alliance Clinical Governance Lead, will officially open proceedings. These Events provide an ideal opportunity to improve your skills, meet and exchange ideas with fellow professionals and check out new products. Just click here to register for either Event.

Have a good week,

Stuart Gidden,

Supervising Editor