A Cumnock GP surgery has admitted that staff are "struggling to meet the demand of booking appointments", as they ask the public to self-refer when possible.

Cumnock Tanyard Muirkirk Group said it currently has a full complement of doctors, advanced nurse practitioners (ANP), nurses, healthcare assistants, receptionists and admin staff, but they are still feeling the pressure of the current demand.

As part of a way to try and ease these pressures, they have offered advice to people on when they can self-refer themselves, how they can find more information and when to contact for urgent medical needs.

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It's said that the surgery is struggling to meed the demand of booking appointments within four weeks.

They added that people may need to be prepared to wait longer than four weeks for "routine issues".

A statement from the team said: "We have a triage system in place for those with more urgent medical needs and encourage anyone, when calling, to let us know if you have a new lump or bump or other concerning symptom.

"We ask that you consider online self-help platforms such as NHS inform.

"You can self-refer via reception to our MSK physio or mental health practitioner.

"If you have to wait for an appointment and you feel better or your issue has resolved the  please cancel your appointment.

"Simply not attending for appointments is a huge waste of clinical resources for the team and the patients waiting longer to be seen."

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They added: "Make sure you order your repeat prescription in time and don't wait until you have no medication left.

"Self-refer via reception for assistance with financial issues, help to fill in benefit forms or if you are experiencing feelings of loneliness.

"We also want to update you on the new telephone system that will be up and running within the next few weeks, along with an improved check-in service to help manage calls more efficiently and reduce queuing at the front desk.

"We will continue to do our best to listen and work with our patients and we want to thank you for your ongoing support."