People can now have their say over plans to axe a service that allows patients to order repeat prescriptions over the phone.

Under a new proposal, the NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) could cut its Pod (prescription ordering direct service) from April 1 next year. 

The service currently allows patients at 18 surgeries across the region to call a dedicated phone number where they can speak with a health professional to order medication.

The service is mainly used by GP practices in the Great Yarmouth and Waveney area and a small number in West Norfolk.

It is believed the proposed cut - which follows an NHS letter issued to all ICBs nationally asking them to reduce running costs by 30pc - could put up to 50 jobs at risk in Norfolk and Waveney.

The ICB has already run a consultation with staff outlining a smaller staffing model and - amid concerns about the possible impacts on vulnerable patients - it is now conducting a survey with members of the public.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Dr Frankie Swords, Executive Medical Director at NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB. Dr Frankie Swords, Executive Medical Director at NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB. (Image: Queen Elizabeth Hospital)

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Dr Frankie Swords, executive medical director at NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB, said: “We want to ensure we get this important decision right, so we are asking for views from those who use the Pod service."

The survey window is open until October 22. 

To give feedback, an online survey can be found at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/6TPQGY

Paper copies are available on request by contacting the ICB’s patient enquiries team or at GP practices where patients use the service. 

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The Nelson Medical Practice in Great Yarmouth is one of the 18 surgeries currently using the POD service. The Nelson Medical Practice in Great Yarmouth is one of the 18 surgeries currently using the POD service. (Image: Archant)

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Andy Yacoub, chief executive of Healthwatch Suffolk, said: “The way support is delivered across our counties is changing constantly. Our local NHS and care services are under continuing financial and logistical pressure, forcing hard considerations across the sector.

“We welcome NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB’s efforts to engage with these voices and ensure people’s feedback is not an afterthought, but a necessary part of the process.

"Every single piece of feedback truly matters, and will help highlight the importance of having a health system that represents the needs of local people.”