Pop-up events make it easy to speak up on GP services. Our local event is on 18th November
Views on GP practices are being sought, and a series of pop-up events across Dumfries and Galloway are giving people the chance to have their say
People across the region are being invited to drop in to the events taking place in busy public locations to share their opinions on local GP services as part of the ongoing General Medical Services (GMS) Review.
Director of Strategic Planning and Transformation David Rowland said: “We have learned a lot from talking to people who deliver these services and those who use them.
“Now, having assembled all these thoughts, we’re heading back out into the communities to share these findings and ask people to comment and focus our thoughts as we move into the final stages of this work.
“This feedback will help shape GP services that work for everyone, every day.”
The GMS Review began in December 2024 and has already gathered insights from healthcare professionals about rising patient demand, workforce pressures, and the need for improved IT systems. It’s spoken to wider stakeholders, and heard from patients about some of the challenges they face, and what they would like to see in the future.
The pop-up events are designed to be quick, simple, and convenient – no appointment is needed. Questions are straightforward, with no jargon, simply asking one simple question – what matters most to you about your GP practice?
Deputy Medical Director and GP Dr Grecy Bell said: “We often hear from staff about what needs to improve, but patients sometimes see things differently. These events are a chance to consider everything we’ve heard to date, and to make sure that what’s taken forward reflects the needs of everyone.”
Feedback from the pop-ups will feed into a comprehensive plan for the future of GP services in Dumfries and Galloway.
Health officials aim to present detailed proposals early next year, ensuring services meet the needs and expectations of local communities.
Residents are encouraged to attend the pop-up events in their area.
Dates, times, and locations are being shared through social media channels.
For more information, or to express interest in attending, people can contact the GMS Review team at dg.shapingthefutureofgms@nhs.scot
