FOLLOWING concerns expressed by local people about health services in Westbury, Healthwatch Wiltshire will be holding public meetings to hear about their experiences.
Local residents continue to worry about the strain that the local GPs are under as demand for appointments continues to increase with the number of housing estates being built in the town.
Many people say they have waited weeks and sometimes months for an appointment to see their GP and the problem is only getting worse.
In response to the concerns voiced in the White Horse News, Healthwatch Wiltshire, whose role is to speak up for local people on health and care matters, will be investigating the issues raised and are holding a series of local meeting on 4th and 5th July where people can have their say.
On Monday 4th July, Healthwatch Wiltshire will be at the Leigh Park Community Hall 2-4pm, the library 2-4pm, Morrisons 11am-1pm, the Co-op 11am-1pm and the White Horse Primary Care Centre 10am-12noon.
On Tuesday 5th July, they will be at the White Horse Day Centre 2-4pm, Leighton Recreation Centre 10am-12noon and the White Horse Primary Care Centre 11am-12noon.
Healthwatch Wiltshire also hope to arrange further dates at the White Horse Health Clinic.
Chair of Healthwatch Wiltshire, Chris Graves said, “We have been approached by local people who are concerned about whether the town has the health and care services it needs.
“Because of all the feedback we have received, Healthwatch Wiltshire will be doing some work over the summer to explore the issues and speak to local people about their experiences of health and care services in the area. This will allow Healthwatch Wiltshire to get an evidence-based picture of the situation including the things people value.
“We would then like to hold a public meeting in September to share our findings, to give local people a chance to have their say, and have a conversation about what can be done together to make the best of what we have and improve where it needs improving. We will also put our findings in a report and publish it so that everyone can read it.”
If anyone would like to get in touch with Healthwatch Wiltshire directly, call 01225 434218 or email info@healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk
