11/11/2025
❄️Winter Pressures❄️
General practice, like the rest of the NHS, faces increased pressure during the winter months. These are some of the factors that contribute to this.
🚨Seasonal illnesses surge: Viral infections such as flu, covid, RSV and norovirus peak during winter, driving higher demand for GP consultations. These infections can also trigger complications in more vulnerable members of society such as the very young and the frail elderly as well as people living with long term medical conditions..
🚨Exacerbation of chronic conditions: Cold weather and respiratory infections can exacerbate asthma, COPD, heart failure, and other long-term conditions necessitating increased support from the GP.
🚨Higher appointment demand: Winter illness generates demand for more same-day and urgent consultations for acute illnesses and exacerbations of chronic medical conditions. This can result in longer waits for routine appointments.
🚨Staff shortages: The practice team themselves may fall ill during winter, impacting available appointments.
🚨Wider Healthcare system constraints: Winter pressures on hospital services can result in patients waiting longer for investigations, outpatient appointments, and procedures. This can result in patients needing to re-consult with their GP if their symptoms or medical conditions deteriorate.
Patients can play an important role in helping ease winter pressures in general practice.
Here are practical ways you can help:
✅ Get vaccinated: Annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of seasonal infections and complications.
✅ Practice good hygiene: Regular handwashing, covering coughs/sneezes, and staying home when unwell help prevent the spread of infections.
✅ Manage chronic medical conditions proactively: Keep medications up to date, attend regular check-ups during the year and follow care plans, to avoid flare-ups.
✅ Consider using a Pharmacy, NHS 111, or online resources for self-care before booking a GP appointment.
✅ Cancel appointments if they are no longer required.
✅ Plan ahead: Order repeat prescriptions early and schedule routine check-ups in advance to reduce last-minute demand. Stock up on homely remedies such as paracetamol.
