The changes have been made following patient feedback and shaped with input from patients at both practices through Patient Participation Groups (PPGs).
The telephone number for Leighton Road Surgery remains the same - 01525 372571. It also remains the same for Cauldwell Medical Centre - 01234 673710.
Benefits for patients include free local calls and a call-back option during busy periods.
Other changes include:
• Patients can request sick notes through the new system between 10am-4pm
• Patients can access blood results through the new phone system between 10am-4pm
• Patients can request prescriptions through the new phone system between 10am-4pm
• The new system can accept unlimited incoming calls – no more engaged tones
The practices are provided by East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), which also provides mental health and community health services in Bedfordshire.
“Our absolute priority is listening to our patients and using their input to always think about how we improve care and our service,” said Dr Mohit Venkataram, ELFT Executive Director for Primary Care.
“Our new telephone system is designed to make it easier for patients to reach our fantastic teams in Leighton Buzzard and Bedford."
He added: "We want to ensure they receive quick and responsive support for their needs – from repeat prescriptions to blood test results.”
Watch below Cauldwell Medical Centre and Leighton Road Surgery's YouTube videos that illustrate how to operate the new telephone system:
*Video Subtitle Translations*
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