I spoke to Geraint Griffiths-Dale, Walsall's Managing Director of the Black Country and West Birmingham CCG, to raise the issue of face-to-face GP appointments.
Geraint informed me that demand for GP appointments is at close to 150% of pre-pandemic levels. However, I was relieved to hear that the CCG is working with GPs to increase the number of appointments, telephone access and urgent appointments. He told me GPs are still offering urgent care which is usually on the same day, and waiting times are set to go down over the next 6 months.
But GPs aren't the only medical staff who can help you - I recently had an appointment with a Nurse Practitioner who was able to help resolve my issue much quicker than waiting for an appointment with my GP. In some cases it is better to speak to staff who are specialised to deal with your issue, this can be a pharmacist, practice nurses, health care assistants and other health professionals.
If you have any particular concern about accessing your GP, please feel free to email me at eddie.hughes@parliament.uk.