UK patients rate GP practices

An online comparison service has been launched today by health minister, Mike O'Brien.

Following last month's news that the UK government is to enable patients to register with a GP practice of their choice, an online comparison tool has been set up to help patients make that decision. Available through NHS Choices, it aims to provide the information people need to decide which of England's 8,300 practices is right for them.

Similar to the hospital comparison service launched over the summer, the tool will make it easier to find key information in one place, such as opening times and additional facilities offered by the GP practice. Patients will also be able to read others' comments about: how easy it is to get an appointment; how highly they would recommend the GP practice; how well patients are treated by staff, and if patients felt they were involved in decisions about their care.

Mike O'Brien said: "As we open up real choice in primary care, it is vital we equip patients with enough information to make the right choice for them.

"This new tool allows every single GP practice in the country to see the patient's view on what they are doing well and what needs to be improved. It will help drive up quality across the board, and is another step in ensuring we have a modern NHS which reflects the needs of the patient."