On International Men’s Day (20 November) Healthwatch Newcastle is urging the male population of the city to “man up” and make that doctor’s appointment they’ve been putting off for months.
The call to action comes on the back of preliminary findings of a major local survey on GP appointments.
Chief Executive of Healthwatch Newcastle, the independent champion for users of social care and health services, Steph Edusei said:
“So far, 25% of people completing our survey are male. I wonder if this trend also reflects the frequency of men visiting their GP. Compared to women, men seem less willing to access healthcare services and that could have worrying consequences for them.”
The survey looks at a range of options available, such as having a specific appointment time but not being able to see the doctor of your choice, as opposed to seeing your own doctor but having to wait longer to see him or her.
The survey is now taking place all across Newcastle, using tried and tested research methodology developed by Northumbria University. The survey results will be presented as a model for good practice, with the aim of supporting GP services in Newcastle.
The survey is available online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/HWN-GP-appointments
Anyone wanting to know more can contact Rachel at Healthwatch Newcastle on 0191 338 5723 orrachel@healthwatchnewcastle.org.uk
