With winter illnesses on the rise, GP practices across Lanarkshire are reassuring patients that a full team of professionals is available to provide the right care.
Practice teams are working hard to ensure people with the most urgent health needs are seen quickly, while all patients receive the right care from the right healthcare professional.
GP practices include a wide mix of highly skilled staff. This means patients may not always need to see a GP to get the help they need.
Dr Mark Kirk, a Lanarkshire GP, encouraged residents to make use of this support. “Our teams are working hard to make sure people with the most urgent health needs are seen quickly, and that everyone gets the right care from the right member of the practice team.
“When you contact your practice, the receptionist may ask for a few details about your concern. This helps them arrange for you to see the most appropriate person as soon as possible.
“Many GP practices in Lanarkshire are also open on additional days over the festive public holidays to help keep our communities well during this busy time of year. So if you need us, please get in touch with your practice. We’re here to help.”
Reception staff are trained in care navigation and work under strict confidentiality rules. The information patients provide helps ensure they are directed quickly to the most appropriate clinician, reducing delays and helping practices manage demand safely during the winter months.
Residents are also reminded that community pharmacies can provide advice and treatment for a wide range of common conditions without the need for an appointment.
Pharmacists can often offer same-day support — helping people access timely care while keeping urgent services available for those who need them most.
Patients can also access trusted health advice at any time through NHS Inform, which offers guidance on common winter illnesses and when to seek help.
