The local launch of a new NHS phone service has been being delayed after problems were experienced by patients using a pilot scheme.
The free NHS 111 service was due to start this month across Bath and north east Somerset and Wiltshire to replace the telephone triage and advice services provided by NHS Direct and local GP out-of-hours arrangements.
The new regime has been tested locally to help identify problems and rectify them before the service goes live and its launch has now been suspended for a month.
The introduction of the new service run by Harmoni has proved controversial across the country, with ambulance unions blaming it for a rise in 999 calls.
B&NES Clinical Commissioning Group spokesman Dr Simon Douglass said: "We know that some patients and providers have experienced problems with getting through to the service as well as delays in receiving treatment. We'd like to apologise for this and reassure patients that we are working with our 111 provider, Harmoni, to resolve outstanding issues."
It is now expected to be officially launched at the end of April and aims to act as a one stop shop for patients whose healthcare need is urgent, but not a 999 emergency.
