Some Jersey patients paying less for GP appointments

The news fees for adults on the scheme are £10 for a GP, £7 for a nurse, paramedic or pharmacist and £4 for health care assistants

Almost 10,000 people in Jersey are now paying less to visit their GP following the introduction of revised healthcare fees, a minister says.

Members of the Health Access Scheme (HAS) have seen a £2 reduction in adult patient costs.

The changes, introduced on Tuesday, were approved by the States Of Jersey.

Deputy Lyndsay Feltham, minister for social security, said the changes only applied to face-to-face or remote appointments.

The news fees are £10 for a GP, £7 for a nurse, paramedic or pharmacist and £4 for health care assistants.

There are no charges for children.

'Positive changes'

Deputy Feltham said: "I am encouraged to hear how the current scheme is making a difference to patients.

"I also recognise the ongoing financial pressures that many islanders are facing, so it's important that we provide further support and act to make a difference where possible.

"I am pleased that we have made some positive changes to the scheme, as this directly helps those claiming Income Support or Pension Plus."

Bryony Perchard, from the Primary Care Body (PCB), representing GPs in Jersey, said: "The PCB were very pleased to work with the social security team to renew the Health Access Scheme and we welcome the minister's further reduction to patient fees.

"This will ensure there is ongoing affordable access to primary care and that this remains an ongoing priority."