A PARTNERSHIP which runs GP practices across the Keighley area is carrying out a major upgrade to make its services “fit for the 21st century”.

Award-winning AWC Modality is installing new IT and telephone systems at all its surgeries over the next few weeks.

Partnership bosses say the move, together with the merging of patient lists, will create “a more responsive service”.

As part of the initiative, new apps and health services will become available to patients.

Dr Brendan Kennedy, a GP for more than 20 years and an executive partner with Modality, said: “We are committed to providing a great service to our patients.

“The work to improve our IT and telephone systems is vital to ensure we can make the improvements our patients and staff are wanting.

“General practice has been struggling with workforce issues and very high demand over the last few months, but local GPs have been working to come-up with solutions that let technology take some of the strain – allowing clinicians to have more time with patients who need face-to-face and direct support.”

The partnership warns that third-party apps – such as the NHS app – may need to be reinstalled by patients, so people should check the status and take action if necessary.

And Dr Kennedy adds: “There may be some issues and disruption with online access and some services over the next few weeks, but the alternative course of action to continue with the present systems was not really an option.

“So please bear with us as we work through any teething issues.”

Modality says it has been working with community partners to provide direct help, and that digital health hubs are offering support to anyone who is struggling with online access.

The hubs are run in partnership with Keighley Healthy Living and Keighley College.

Sessions take place at Highfield Community Centre, in Drewry Road, Keighley, on Tuesdays and at Bracken Bank Community Centre on Thursdays, both between 1pm and 3pm.

Support is also available from Worth Valley Connecting and Silsden Town Hall.

Surgeries operated by AWC Modality include Silsden and Steeton Medical Practice, Cross Hills Medical Practice, Fisher Medical Centre in Skipton, Kilmeny in Keighley, Haworth Medical Practice, Holycroft Medical Centre and Farfield Group Practice in Keighley, and Oakworth Medical Practice.