Call Comes Ahead Of Anticipated Surge In Seasonal Referrals

Medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have called on health bosses to ensure measures are in place to deal with an anticipated increase in out-of-hours GP services this winter.

Solicitors at the law firm’s Bristol office have called for out-of-hours patients to receive a ‘high level of care’ to maintain confidence in the NHS.

It comes after it was revealed that Vocare, which provides out-of-hours services in Somerset, may need to draft in paramedics and nurses to deal with a predicted increase in appointments this winter.

Vocare said it was working with Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group to draw up plans to meet patient demand.

Julie Lewis, is the regional managing partner at Irwin Mitchell's Bristol office.

Expert Opinion

Our clients’ experiences show how crucial it is that out-of-hours services deliver a high level of care, as the consequences of an inadequate service can be devastating.

“As winter approaches and the NHS is placed under increasing pressure and evermore patients are referred to out-of-hours, it is essential that the public can rely upon these services and feel confident that they and their loved ones will receive the care they need.” Julie Lewis - Partner