2.12 Enhanced Access (EA) Service
NPC’s delivery of Enhanced Access (EA) services supports improved access equity by ensuring that patients can access primary care services at times that better reflect differing needs, circumstances, and lifestyles. By providing appointments outside of core hours, including evenings and weekends, the service reduces barriers for individuals who may face challenges attending during traditional working hours, such as those in employment, carers, or people with complex social circumstances.
The model also supports more equitable access across PCN populations by offering care through a hub-based approach, enabling resources to be distributed efficiently and consistently across practices. This helps to reduce variation in access between practices and ensures that patients, regardless of their registered GP, can benefit from additional appointment capacity. NPC works with PCNs to tailor Enhanced Access delivery to local population needs, including consideration of deprivation, demographic profiles, and known health inequalities. This targeted and flexible approach helps to ensure that underserved or higher-risk groups can access care more easily, supporting earlier intervention and reducing the risk of unmet need. Over the course of 2025/26, NPC has delivered 10,748 EA Service appointments in 12 individual hubs in the PCNs it supports across the Norfolk & Waveney region. In addition, the provision of a multi-disciplinary workforce within Enhanced Access services supports patients in accessing the most appropriate clinician for their needs, improving both timeliness and quality of care. This contributes to a more efficient, responsive system that promotes equitable outcomes. Overall, Enhanced Access services play a key role in reducing inequalities in access to primary care, supporting system-wide priorities to deliver inclusive, responsive, and patient-centred services.
What did the patients say about the Enhanced Access Service?
“I work full time and unable to attend many appointments during the day, so this was perfect.” Patient from the EA Service
“Excellent service, and great that it’s a Saturday as well. Well done and thank you for the service.” Patient from the EA Service
Norfolk Primary Care - Quality Account 2025/26
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