Concerns have been raised over changes made at Beccles Medical Centre.

A petition has been launched to overturn the new system which came into place last week.

The changes affect the times that patients can book a GP appointment.

The petition says that changes are not 'practical or feasible' and has caused a lot of worry in the community.

It was started by Beccles resident Kelly Smith, and so far has raised more than 430 signatures of a target 500.

A statement on the petition page continues: 'The same number of patients attempting calls in only three hours instead of the 10.5 hour window will make it even more difficult to get through. It is already difficult to call up and get connected and when you are it is a long wait on hold before you speak to anyone at all.'

It added that not everyone has the time to sit by the phone and wait for a call back.'

The changes have seen trained receptionists signpost callers between 8am and 11am, where they offer the most appropriate options for patients to take.

This might or might not involve them being placed on the GP's call back list.

Those wishing to make an appointment for a practice nurse must call after 11am and those with general enquiries or looking for results can ring after 2pm.

A statement from the medical centre thanked patients for their support and said they appreciate change is unsettling and it will take time to adjust to the new system.

It added: 'It was introduced to improve patient clinical safety so that you receive the best possible care within the resources currently available to the practice. We are constantly auditing and reviewing the system and will make adjustments based on analysis.

'We are committed to providing appropriate and safe care to you and the community by ensuring you are directed to the right person at the right time.'

To view the petition, search for Beccles Medical Centre at www.change.org

•What do you think? Write to us using the details on page 27.

To view the petition click here.

What do you think? Email bbj.letters@archant.co.uk or write to Letters, Beccles and Bungay Journal, 20 Blyburgate, Beccles, NR34 9TB.