Third Avenue Doctors Surgery

NHS App
Anima
PCN

Latest Information

About Anima - 

We would like to explain the recent changes regarding online consultations at GP practices.

Many patients have asked whether the move towards online consultation forms and online requests is a decision made by their GP surgery. We would like to clarify that this is not a local practice decision. The requirement for GP practices to provide online consultation access during core opening hours has been introduced through national NHS and Government contract requirements. 

From October 2025, GP practices in England have been required to keep their online consultation systems available throughout core hours for non-urgent appointment requests, medication queries and administrative requests. 

The Government and NHS state that the aim is to improve access to general practice, reduce pressure on telephone lines, support patient triage and help end the well-known "8am rush" for appointments. 

We understand that not all patients wish to use online services, and we want to reassure you that patients can still contact the practice by telephone or in person. Online consultations are intended to provide an additional route for accessing care, rather than replacing existing methods of contact. 

Our practice remains committed to providing safe, accessible and high-quality care for all patients. We continue to support those who are unable to access online services and will ensure that appropriate help is available when needed.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Patient Participation Group - Our last Patient Participation Meeting was held on Tuesday 14th April 2026 here at the Surgery. We will advise of the next meeting in due course. 

Accessing Your Documents via the NHS APP - Following a review of our processes , we will no longer be routinely issuing printed copies of documents that are available through the NH App. We kindly ask all patients to access their documents via the NHS App. This helps us to reduce environmental impact and ensures you can access your information quickly. If  you are unable to use the NHS App, please contact the Practice and we will be happy to assist you. 

Chaperone Policy - For information, a Clinician may require a chaperone if they believe there is a significant risk of the patient experiencing distress, unpredictable behaviour or making false accusations.  Please also see our Zero Tolerance Policy. 

Weight Loss Injections  -  Following recent press covereage regarding weight loss injection availability from GP Surgeries, please copy and paste the link below for latest up to date information for our local area. 

www.midandsouthessex.ics.nhs.uk/news/access-to-tirzepatide-for-weight-management-in-mid-and-south-essex/

We will update our website accordingly. 

Social Media Policy - Please see our Social Media Policy within the forms section. 

Check In Screen - Please be aware we have a check in screen at the left hand side of our Reception desk as you enter the Surgery. It is very straightforward and may save time when arriving at the Surgery.

Contact Information - Please ensure you advise us of any changes in contact details for you, especially your address and home and mobile phone numbers. 

 

 

Page last reviewed: 18 June 2026
Page created: 26 March 2025