Hundreds of people in Shepton Mallet and Evercreech have been left reeling after receiving a text from their doctor's surgery which appears to tell them that they can no longer phone the surgery – but must make contact via an online form instead.

The text message was sent out by Park Medical Practice and Evercreech Surgery on Wednesday afternoon. It read: "To improve your access to our services, from 1st August we ask that patients make contact with us by using the 'Contact us Online" button on our website www.parkmedicalpractice.nhs.uk. Many thanks Park Medical Surgery and Evercreech Surgery."

The message prompted floods of people to take to social media to voice concerns that not only has face-to-face contact with medical professionals been reduced since the pandemic, but that now it appears that they will no longer be able to speak to a representative at the surgery either. There are particular concerns for those that don't have access to, or struggle to use, technology such as smartphones and computers.

One angry patient branded the move an "absolute disgrace" and another said "it is a step too far."

Some, however, have welcomed the move believing that it will be a more efficient way of making contact than waiting for the phone to be answered, or having to keep calling back because the line is busy.

But Evercreech councillor Barry O'Leary said that in the 24 hours since the text was sent he had been contacted by dozens of concerned residents. He said: "Like many of you I rely on either the Evercreech practice or the nearby Shepton Park practice."After receiving this message below I'm tremendously worried that there will be a body of patients left behind who are not technologically inclined.

"I have been contacted by many residents who share my concerns, including someone who is very worried about her 81-year-old grandmother who does not use the internet.

"And because her grandmother doesn't have a mobile phone she wasn't even aware of the changes. It was only when the granddaughter saw my Facebook post that she knew this was happening."

And when Cllr O'Leary tried to make contact using the online form, he was met with an automated message saying that someone would respond within two days, and to call 111 or 999 in the case of serious illness.

A spokesperson for Park Medical Practice and Evercreech Surgery said: "Park Medical Practice, like GP surgeries across the country, is embracing technology to improve patient care. We know that some patients prefer to use online access as it provides a quick and convenient way to contact their practice at a time which works well for them. 

"Practices are continuing to see very high levels of demand and online contact is one way to provide a responsive service to patients. We understand that this may cause concern for some patients, especially for those who may prefer to talk to someone directly and while people are still able to contact the surgery by phone, we are asking that people follow the advice of the practice and use online access wherever possible. 

"The practice is working hard to continue to care for all of their patients, no matter their health and care needs." 

Cllr O'Leary said: "At the very least the text was badly worded and if it is still possible to contact the surgery by phone, then they should send another message making that clear."