Across Harrow Collaborative PCN, we want patients to know they can access high-quality, timely care from their local GP practice. This page outlines the improvements made during 2025/26 and our commitments for 2026/27.
Improving Access to GP Services in 2026/27
Our Primary Care Network (PCN) and member GP practices remain committed to providing high-quality, timely and accessible care for all patients.
What We Achieved in 2025/26
During 2025/26, we worked together to improve access to general practice by:
- Maintaining online consultation services throughout practice opening hours.
- Using cloud-based telephone systems to improve call handling, call-back options and patient information.
- Promoting services such as Pharmacy First, online consultations and the NHS App to help patients access the right care more quickly.
- Improving the recording and coding of patient contacts to better understand demand and plan services.
- Supporting the Safe Surgeries initiative to ensure healthcare remains accessible to everyone.
- Collecting and reviewing Friends and Family Test feedback to improve patient experience.
- Developing approaches to identify and support patients who may be at higher risk of poor health outcomes.
- Working with local communities to better understand and address health inequalities.
What We Will Continue and Deliver in 2026/27
Building on this progress, we will continue to improve access and patient experience by:
Making it Easier to Contact Us
- Ensuring online consultation services remain available throughout core opening hours.
- We will continue to improve telephone access and reduce waiting times for patients contacting the practice.
- Providing clear information about alternative services and self-care options where appropriate.
Improving Digital Access
- Ensuring translation functionality is enabled within online consultation systems where available.
- Promoting digital services such as the NHS App to help patients access care, information and services more easily.
Helping Patients Get the Right Care First Time
- Continuing to support Pharmacy First and other primary care services so patients can be directed to the most appropriate healthcare professional.
- Working closely with NHS 111 and Urgent Treatment Centres to ensure patients can be safely redirected into primary care when suitable.
Supporting Patients with Greater Health Needs
- Using population health data and risk stratification to identify patients who may benefit from additional support.
- Balancing urgent, proactive and preventative care to improve long-term health outcomes.
Reducing Health Inequalities
- Working in partnership with local communities to provide targeted outreach and engagement.
- Developing services that help reduce barriers to care and improve access for underserved groups.
Improving Quality and Patient Experience
- Continuing to monitor patient feedback and use it to improve services.
- Ensuring consistent, high-quality care across all access channels.
- Supporting patients to be seen in the most appropriate setting for their needs.
Our Commitment
We are committed to providing high-quality, safe and timely care for our patients. Through continuous improvement, digital innovation and closer working with our communities, we will continue to make access to GP services easier, fairer and more effective for everyone.
