Important Update for Patients in North Cumbria
From 1st August 2025, we, alongside some other GP practices in the North, West, and East areas of Cumbria will be making changes to how certain healthcare requests are handled. (e.g. blood tests on behalf of hospital and specialist clinics). These changes aim to protect patient access and ensure the long-term sustainability of general practice services.
Patients are kindly asked not to contact their GP practice about these changes, unless advised otherwise. Practices will continue to support continuity of care and will provide direct information to anyone affected.
This decision comes in response to a significant and ongoing increase in appointment requests and clinical tasks requested by other healthcare providers. While GP practices have historically absorbed these additional tasks, they now account for an estimated 25–30% of the daily GP workload, impacting appointment availability for core services.
These changes are designed to ensure patients still receive appropriate care—often more directly from the specialist services managing their condition—while helping practices protect appointment availability and improve access for all.
Full information, including some videos on why these changes are crucial to protecting general practice, and a list of frequently asked questions can be found at:
www.primarycarenorthcumbria.co.uk/gpaccess
Summary of Changes to Hospital Test Requests & Medication Prescriptions
From 1st August:
Certain services will no longer be provided by your GP practice on behalf of hospital clinics, including:
- Blood tests requested by hospital teams
- Removal of sutures or clips after hospital operations
What You Need to Do:
➡️ Please contact your hospital team directly to arrange these appointments.
➡️ If you’re unsure who to contact, our surgery reception team can help guide you.
We will continue to:
✔ Monitor specific medications such as rheumatoid arthritis drugs (e.g., methotrexate).
Medication Prescriptions:
- After hospital visits or admissions, prescriptions will be provided by the hospital team.
- Once your condition is stable, your GP can take over prescribing.
This follows national NHS guidance to improve safety and convenience.
Need Support or Advice?
Contact:
North Cumbria Integrated Care – PALS
📧 pals@ncic.nhs.uk
📞 01228 814008
Or speak with your hospital care provider.
Thank you for your understanding and patience during this transition.