Continuity of Care

The importance of continuity of care

Seeing a GP who knows you can make a real difference to your care.

Continuity of care means having the opportunity to see the same GP or a small team of clinicians who are familiar with you, your medical history and your individual circumstances.

When we know our patients over time, we can build a better understanding of their health, priorities and concerns. This can help us:

• Understand the bigger picture rather than treating each problem in isolation.
• Recognise changes in your health and identify concerns earlier.
• Make better-informed decisions because we understand your medical history and previous treatments.
• Avoid unnecessary tests, referrals or repeated explanations where appropriate.
• Build trust and communication, particularly when discussing sensitive or long-term health problems.
• Support better management of long-term conditions, where knowing what has happened previously can be particularly valuable.
• Coordinate your care with other healthcare professionals and services when needed.

Continuity can be particularly helpful for people with long-term conditions, multiple health problems, complex or changing needs, and those approaching the end of life. It can also be valuable when discussing personal or sensitive concerns.

Why can't I always see the same GP?

We recognise that patients sometimes need to be seen quickly, and there will be occasions when the most appropriate clinician is someone other than your usual GP. Our practice works as a team, and all our clinicians have access to your medical record and work together to provide safe, consistent care.

Where it is clinically appropriate and practical, however, we encourage continuity of care and will try to help you see a clinician who knows you.

If you have an ongoing health problem or would particularly benefit from seeing a GP who knows your history, please let our reception team know when you book your appointment.