GP surgeries to be rated online

GPs will be rated online

Patients are now able to rate and compare GP practices using a new online comparison service launched today by the government.

This new tool on the NHS web site will rate England’s 8,300 practices on how easy it is to get an appointment, how well patients are treated, and patient involvement.

It will also have information on opening times and extra facilities offered.

Health Minister Mike O’Brien said the new tool will drive up the quality of care on offer.

“As we open up real choice in primary care, it is vital we equip patients with enough information to make the right choice for them."

Last month the government announced that it will abolish GP practice boundaries within a year, allowing patients to register anywhere rather than just in particular catchment areas.

Dr. Peter Swinyard, Chairman of the Family Doctor Association, said he supported the intiative.

"Patient feedback on GP services is an effective way of driving up the standards of primary care even further," he said.

The initiative is part of an NHS scheme to give patients more choice, which has also seen the introduction of online hospital ratings.