A new respiratory hub in Yeovil, Somerset, has delivered vital care to hundreds of patients with lung and breathing conditions, easing the pressure on GP services and emergency departments. Just one month after opening, the hub, a partnership between NHS Somerset and Yeovil Primary Care Network (PCN), has provided 608 same-day appointments and treatments, ensuring timely access to essential healthcare.
Located at Hendford Lodge Medical Centre, part of the Diamond Health Group, the Yeovil Respiratory Hub launched on 13 January 2025 offering same-day appointments to approximately 250 patients per week. Open to all patients registered with Yeovil GP practices, the hub was initially set to run for six weeks, as part of an initiative to manage the seasonal surge in respiratory illnesses.
Jenna Malcolm, Yeovil PCN Manager, highlighted the necessity of the hub:
“During winter, respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) become more prevalent. In December alone, nearly 740 patients contacted their GP in Yeovil with respiratory concerns—far exceeding the usual numbers we experience.
“In response to this growing demand, we established the respiratory hub at Hendford Lodge Medical Centre. This service ensures that any patient registered with a Yeovil GP practice who experiences symptoms such as a persistent cough, shortness of breath, or other respiratory distress can be assessed and receive same-day treatment.”
The hub also provides an alternative to A&E when suitable. Patients who arrive at Yeovil Hospital’s emergency department or are seen by ambulance services may be redirected to the respiratory hub for focused care. Additionally, the hub works closely with the Respiratory Hospital at Home service to offer continued support for patients who need ongoing care.
Dr Philip Hine, GP Partner at Hendford Lodge Medical Centre, said:
“The respiratory hub has made a real difference for patients, ensuring that anyone with suspected respiratory issues is seen promptly while allowing GP practices to maintain their focus on routine patient care. The high number of patients seen within just one month shows the critical role of innovative solutions like this in addressing seasonal pressures on the NHS.”
Dr Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Somerset, which funded the hub, said: “With flu, RSV, and other viruses putting extra pressure on NHS services, the respiratory hub is an important addition this winter. It makes sure patients get the right care when they need it, while also taking some of the strain off GPs and on our hospitals.”
