My doctor's surgery has an 0845 number now, which the receptionist said was allocated by the local NHS trust.  (She said that as far as she knew, that was the only number they had.)

Has anyone else here used a Freedom of Information Act request to get the geographical number?  Any pointers, tips or suggestions?

Thanks.

Have you tried dialling the old number?

I dialled the old number and got the message, "The number ... has been changed to 0845...".   Until then I had not been aware that they had changed to a NGN.

Hi Adam
To make a valid request for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 is straightforward.
The request must be in written form, ie a letter, fax or email.
The request must contain your name and address.
You are not required to mention the FOI Act, but it helps to head your request  “Freedom of Information Act 2000”
Ask short direct questions.  A one line letter is fine.
You do not have to give a reason for your request .

You could also ask the following questions:

0845 numbers never cost less than normal geographical numbers, no matter what the location of the caller is.  
0845 numbers cost between 4p and 3p/min.  
Normal numbers cost between 3p and 0p/min irrespective of the UK location of the caller.
As they offer no advantage to a patient, why are they using an 0845 number?


0845 numbers cannot be used from outside the UK.  What alternative number could you use in an emergency to contact them for essential information?


0845 numbers cost over 600% more than normal numbers from a Pay Phone.

I would be suprised if the number was allocated by the local PCT. Most surgeries operate as independent contractors and as such the PCT only has limited control over what they do if it is not covered by the GMS contract. My understanding is that telephone services are decided by the practice themselves.