For the Many Group Magazine. | Page 6

Accrington Victoria Hospital - Walk In Centre I think that most of us have had that experience by now of having to wait weeks to get a GPs appointment. After waiting an interminable time waiting on the phone I have heard of responses like "No appointments are available now, ring back in a week or so" or the receptionist demanding to know what is wrong with you before making an appointment. Surely that is why we needed to see a doctor? I have heard of an elderly person ringing all morning and failing to get an appointment before in desperation turning up at the surgery only to be told that she shouldn't have done that but needed to ring instead We in Hyndburn have however have the perfect response... Our Accrington Victoria Hospital Drop In centre! At a time when the NHS is wobbling on the edge of implosion it is an oasis in the desert, an almost permanently open door (8am until 8.30pm seven days a week) when many others are being slammed in our face. This is all set to change when, after five stays of execution the drop in centre finally closes for good (currently set for Spring 2018) In future patients wishing to see a GP will have to yes.... you've guessed it.... hit the phone lines and wait for a receptionist to book an appointment for you! Want to save the Accrington Victoria Hospital Drop In centre - contact the NHS East Lancashire CCG to show your support email [email protected] or sign the Online petition https://www.change.org/p/nhs-east-lancashire- clinical-commissioning-group-save-accrington- walk-in-centre? How does our health care spending compare to all other European countires? -6-