PATIENTS who phone their local GP or dental surgery in Enfield will soon find it easier to get through.

Enfield Island Surgery and Dental Access Centre is one of several practices in the area to improve phone services for all of its patients from the end of this week.

So, from Friday, the main telephone number will change to 0844 815 1366 and the fax number will become 0844 815 1395.

Known as Surgery Line, the new system has been designed for use in the general practice.

With extra phone lines and elements of call automation, it is planned that the line will reduce call congestion, easing the pressure on the main switchboard.

With over 3,000 patients on the register, phone lines can become jammed at peak times, and it is hoped that the new system will allow receptionists to deal with calls efficiently.

The service includes a new switchboard, headset, a call recording facility and extra safety features for staff.

It is hoped that this will result in patients being able to get in contact with whoever they want to speak to much quicker.

To ease the changeover, anyone calling the old number will hear a recording with details of the new number they should call.

This recording will be kept on the system for as long as necessary.