With an extra 5,500 appointments and extended opening hours to meet growing demand.
In response to the increased demand for respiratory care during the ongoing winter season, Pennine GP Alliance (PGPA) has successfully expanded its Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) Hubs across Calderdale. Initially launched in September 2023, the initiative has now been extended to offer two ARI hubs in each of the five Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in Calderdale.
This expansion, which began on 27th January 2025, will provide an additional 5,500 appointments across the area, helping to alleviate pressures on GP practices and urgent care services during the winter months.
In 2023-2024, the ARI hubs offered almost 14000 appointments and saw an impressive 95% utilisation rate across all locations, demonstrating the significant demand for these services and the impact they have had in supporting the local healthcare system. With respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19, and other infections becoming more prevalent, these hubs continue to ensure timely access to care for residents experiencing symptoms such as persistent coughs, shortness of breath, and other signs of respiratory distress.
As part of the expansion, Pennine GP Alliance has also extended the opening hours of the ARI hubs. Many now offer earlier starts and later finishes, with some sites open until 8pm to accommodate working individuals and ensure care is easily accessible closer to home.
Point of Care Testing continues at all 10 sites, providing fast, accurate results that help doctors make immediate decisions about treatment. These tests, which provide results within minutes, enable clinicians to distinguish between viral and bacterial infections and ensure that antibiotics are prescribed only when necessary.
Will Menzies, PGPA Chief Executive said: “With the ongoing pressures brought by the winter season, we are pleased to have expanded the ARI hubs across Calderdale. The additional 5,500 appointments and extended hours will allow us to meet the needs of our community, ensuring that patients receive timely, appropriate care while alleviating strain on GP practices and urgent care services.”
Dr. Fawad Azam, Clinical Director for Calder and Ryburn Primary Care Network and clinician involved in the ARI hub initiative, added: “The ARI hubs have been a vital support to our GP practice, particularly during the busy winter months. By providing a dedicated space for patients with respiratory concerns, we’re able to focus on routine care for our other patients, while ensuring those who need respiratory support are seen quickly. The hubs are making a real difference in improving patient care, and the expanded hours mean we can better meet the needs of our community.”
The 10 ARI hubs are strategically located across Calderdale to ensure accessibility for all residents. These hubs provide essential services such as assessments, diagnostic tests, oxygen saturation monitoring, medication, and follow-up care. Where necessary, patients may be referred to their GP for further treatment.
The expansion of the ARI Hubs is a collaborative effort and supported by funding from the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, who recognise the impact ARI hub provision is having on alleviating same day access issues for patients across Calderdale.
The ARI Hubs will remain open and continue to provide services until Easter 2025. Anyone contacting their GP practice with respiratory concerns can expect to be referred to an ARI hub for prompt and comprehensive care.