A SERIES of workshops starting in August will explore how general medical practice in the region is running, helping to inform future approaches.
Members of the public are invited to attend these sessions and contribute to discussions about what is important, and how provision of GP services can be sustained and developed.
Linda Bunney is head of Primary Care Development, and she said: “These events are a chance for patients and communities to influence how care is delivered locally, and we hope people will come along and get involved.
“We would encourage anyone with an interest in taking part to do so, but note that people must be registered in advance and able to attend the entire session from the very start.”
These events take place as follows:
Wednesday 20/08/2025, early evening, Castle Douglas
Wednesday 03/09/2025, early evening, Annan
Tuesday 09/09/2025, early evening, Newton Stewart
Thursday 11/09/2025, morning, Dumfries
PLEASE NOTE: People must register in advance in order to obtain details and attend these sessions, by emailing dg.shapingthefutureofgms@nhs.scot. Anyone participating must be able to attend from the very start of the session, and will be unable to join when it is already underway.
For anyone unable to attend an in-person public session, a virtual session will be held online on Wednesday 13/08/2025 from 10 am to 12 pm. Again, people wishing to participate must register in advance by emailing dg.shapingthefutureofgms@nhs.scot
Afternoon sessions are taking place for the practice workforce on the same days, where they will explore topics such as digital tools and challenges around workforce.
To allow GPs and practice teams to attend, GP practices in the participating areas will close for the afternoon. Urgent care will remain available during these periods, with information provided to anyone who telephones a practice.
Dr Lisa Corrie is a local GP taking part in the programme, and she said: “These workshops give us space to think creatively and work together.
“I very much hope that people from across our communities get involved, and are able to help us to consider ways to help ensure general practice is something we can all rely on in the years ahead.”
For more information, visit: https://www.nhsdg.co.uk/general-medical-services-review/
Key Points:
· Workshops held in August and September to develop long-term, sustainable models of general practice
· GPs and Practice teams will attend workshop sessions
· Public invited to dedicated public workshop sessions
· Registration required in advance, and attendance from the start of the session
· Urgent care will remain available on afternoon of practice closures