Relationship between the volume and type of appointments in general practice and patient experience: an observational study in England

Patient satisfaction and ability to have health needs met is associated with face-to-face access to GPs as well as the total volume of appointments available. The results suggest that patients' perceptions of access involve more than immediate availability of appointments or that patients may struggle to get appointments at practices offering more same-day appointments. Initiatives to improve access to, and satisfaction with, general practice should prioritise expanding face-to-face GP appointments.