Massive IT and phone system outages across GP practices in Greater Manchester

Major IT system and phone outages are causing havoc at GP practices across Greater Manchester this morning (March 29).

A technical fault is causing IT systems to crash and phone lines to go down across the region. NHS bosses have confirmed they are working to find a solution urgently.

The NHS has issued advice on how to get medical help as some patients are reporting appointment delays and cancellations. The crash is understood to be affecting many of the more than 600 GP practices in Greater Manchester.

READ MORE: What went wrong at scandal-hit Greater Manchester mental health unit where patients were allegedly abused

A spokesperson for NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care told the Manchester Evening News: "There is an IT issue which is affecting some GP systems and phone lines across Greater Manchester. We are seeking to resolve as soon as possible.

"If you are in need of medical help, please contact NHS 111 either online or by phone. In emergencies, please dial 999."

The M.E.N. also understands that the IT and phone problems are limited to Greater Manchester and are not nationwide. One NHS source has said that many staff at one practice are working from their mobile phones as 'all work devices are not connecting'.

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