Of the 578 people who responded to the survey, sent out earlier this year, 86 per cent said they felt they were seen as soon as necessary, compared to a national average of 79 per cent.

And 58 per cent said they had been offered flexibility and could book an appointment three or more working days in advance.

Once in the surgery, 95 per cent said they were treated with respect and dignity and 86 per cent said they felt the doctor listened carefully to what they had to say.

Cleanliness was also praised – three-quarters of patients said the practice was very clean while a further 22 per cent said it was fairly clean.

Andrew Hassan, medical director of Suffolk Primary Care Trust, said: "I am proud to say that these results show the vast majority of patients are happy with the treatment they are receiving when they visit their doctor.

"The responses we received showed us that a lot of patients wanted their doctor's surgery to stay open for longer. We have listened to these responses and, working with our GPs, can now offer extended hours at many practices across the county."

http://www.suffolkpct.nhs.uk/

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