Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Older people may be struggling to access the right GP services for their needs, the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales has said.

Helena Herklots CBE is inviting older people to share their experiences of GP services as she looks to identify issues that need to be tackled.

With changes to the way GP services are delivered in Wales picking up pace since the pandemic, the commissioner is worried that older people are at risk of being left behind and left out.

Ms Herklots wants to hear people’s experiences in a range of areas, such as making appointments, and whether or not they feel listened to and respected.

She also wants to hear about wider issues such as the availability of services such as translation, and access to surgeries through public transport.

Ms Herklots will be sending out a questionnaire to gather older people’s experiences.

People will also be able to take part in the questionnaire via phone, online or by writing to the commissioner’s office.

Ms Herklots said: “Older people throughout Wales often share issues and concerns about GP services with me, and since the pandemic new barriers seem to have emerged, such as the shift to doing far more online.

“That’s why I am inviting older people to get in touch with my office to share their experiences, so I can learn more about the kinds of issues and challenges people are facing and identify where action is needed.

“I’m also keen to hear about what’s working well, so this good practice that makes a positive difference can be adopted more widely.”

The commissioner will look into her findings over the autumn and publish a report in the new year with recommendations on how to make sure GP practices are accessible to older people.