A GP practice in Carlisle has stopped allowing patients to book appointments in advance because of the immense pressure it is facing. Fusehill Medical Practice has introduced a telephone triage system, with a doctor speaking to all patients before they can book an appointment, and appointments only available on the day.
Partners at the practice have said that they have had trouble with the pre-bookable appointment system, and recruitment problems are worsening the situation.
It is the latest practice to do so, following a similar measure being taken by a practice in Swindon.
Full story in Pulse 6 June 2016