The Island’s GPs are above average when it comes to being able to book an appointment quickly. In a Department of Health survey, more than 91% of Isle of Wight patients said they were able to see a doctor within 48 hours, beating the national average of 86%. The report also found that 92% of patients were satisfied they could easily contact their GP practice by phone and 91% could specify which doctor they wanted to see, compared to 86% and 88% nationally. The survey was carried out between January and March 2007.