IT should now be easier for people in Ealing to make a doctor’s appointment at a time that suits them, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

GPs and nurses can now offer patients appointments from Monday to Friday 6.30-8pm,  and Saturday and Sunday, 8am-8pm.

These new hours are in addition to existing services, meaning residents can now pre-book GP and nurse appointments from 8am-8pm seven days a week.

Any patient registered with an Ealing GP can get one of these appointments at three practices across the borough. Appointments can be booked through your local GP practice or by calling NHS 111 when the practice is closed.

The initiative aims to improve patient experience and reduce avoidable A&E visits and unscheduled hospital admissions.

Dr Mohini Parmar, who chairs NHS Ealing Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Our aim is to make GP services quicker, safer and accessible to all, especially for parents, carers and people with work commitments.

“Previously, patients have told us they were concerned about the lack of access to GP and nurse appointments. We are now able to offer evening and weekend appointments.”

To book an appointment with a GP or nurse, contact your GP practice or call NHS 111.