GP IT System Changes

GP practices across NHS Dumfries and Galloway are moving to a new computer system. This is part of a wider programme across Scotland to help make sure all practices use the same GP IT system in future. 

What does this mean for me? 

For most patients, there will be little or no long-term change to how you contact your GP practice or use services. During the changeover, there may be some short-term disruption for around four weeks. 

During this time, you may notice: 

• Fewer routine appointments on some days. Please only contact the practice on the day if you need urgent medical help. 

• Changes to online services, such as booking appointments or ordering repeat prescriptions 

• Short delays with non-urgent requests or paperwork 

Your GP practice team will do all they can to keep disruption to a minimum and continue to provide safe care. 

What does this mean for practice teams? 

This is a big change for practice staff, who are learning new systems and ways of working while continuing to care for patients. Changes like this take time, and teams may be working under more pressure than usual while the new system is put in place. We are grateful for your patience and understanding during this time. 

What is staying the same? 

• You will remain registered with your GP practice. 

• Urgent care will continue to be available as normal. 

• Your medical records will be transferred securely. 

• Routine appointments will be available again to book in the coming weeks. 

How can I help during this time? 

• Contact your practice if you have an urgent health concern. 

• Please continue to attend any appointments unless you are told otherwise. 

• If you need to order a prescription during this period, please request it early. 

• Use online services only if your practice advises that they are available. 

• If you previously used online services, look out for an email asking you to register for the new Patient Services system. 

• Please be patient if things take a little longer than usual. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding while this important work is carried out to improve GP services for the future. 

When will my practice change over?

Since the start of the project in January, several practices have already completed the change. You can find your practice in the table below.

For a settling-in period of up to four weeks after the “final backup date” in the table below, your practice may offer a reduced service as the changeover happens. For example, if your practice has a “final backup date” of 7 July, the settling-in period could last up to 4 August.

If your practice is listed with a “final backup date” more than four weeks in the past, it is likely that it has already completed the change and settling-in period, and you should not notice any further change in services in the future. 

For more information about your GP practice’s changeover and the effect it will have on services, please look out for information from your GP, or contact your practice directly.