At Practice 1, we aim to provide high-quality, patient-focused care. One important part of this is continuity of care, which means trying to ensure that patients can see the same GP or healthcare professional for ongoing or long-term health concerns whenever possible. This helps clinicians gain a better understanding of your medical history and provide care that is consistent, personalised, and effective.
Continuity of care is about developing an ongoing relationship between you and your GP or clinician. When a healthcare professional becomes familiar with your health history and individual needs, they are better able to monitor your progress, coordinate treatment, and support your overall wellbeing.
Although it may not always be possible to see the same clinician at every appointment, we try to support this wherever possible, particularly for patients who benefit most from regular follow-up with the same doctor.
Seeing the same GP or clinician over time can:
Support better management of long-term health conditions
Reduce the likelihood of needing urgent or hospital care
Strengthen trust and communication between patients and clinicians
Ensure care is more coordinated and consistent
Continuity of care can benefit all patients, but it may be particularly helpful for those who:
Have long-term conditions such as diabetes, asthma, COPD, or heart disease
Have complex or multiple medical needs
Are older or living with frailty
Require ongoing support for mental health or long-term care
You can help us maintain continuity by:
Asking for your usual GP when arranging an appointment
Informing the reception team if your concern is part of an ongoing issue
Attending follow-up appointments with the same clinician when recommended
Where possible, we will try to book you with your usual GP. However, this may sometimes mean waiting a little longer for an appointment.
Our priority at Practice 1 is to provide safe, effective, and personalised care, and continuity of care helps us achieve this.
Please do not delay seeking medical advice for urgent or acute health problems while waiting to see your preferred GP or clinician.