COVID-19 transformed general practice to become more resilient, efficient, and adaptable throughout a time of change and uncertainty. June 2023 stats show that there were 423,000 appointments offered to patients in ways that may not have seemed possible before the pandemic transformed the landscape of general practice.
Among those numbers there were 316,000 face to face appointments, 82,000 telephone and 6,105 online consultations. Appointments are now taking place 7 days a week, face to face, telephone, and via online consultation forms.
Since, the pandemic, online forms have developed to become vital triaging tools used by practices to prioritise patient need and inform decisions about how appointments are allocated and what type of appointment is best suited. Patients can seek advice, discuss symptoms, and send in photographs of their ailments allowing for virtual examinations from the comfort and safety of their homes.
Wyke Regis and Lanehouse Medical Practice are about to introduce the online triage service Klinik to their patients. Ann Klust, Practice Manager said,
“We are constantly looking at ways to improve our service. Klinik is a web-based consultation tool which will improve access to healthcare for those who prefer online methods.
“For our patients who cannot access the internet, it should reduce their telephone wait times by freeing up the phone lines.
“We also now have digital coordinators who can assist patients with using apps on their mobile phones to manage their own health better. Our digital coordinators and patient groups can support those who would like to use online tools, like Klinik, to book their appointments, but who are unsure or unconfident in using them.
“Our growing presence on social media offers people another way to find out about practice information such as opening times, health events happening locally and general health messaging.
“We also encourage patients to help us manage demand effectively. By considering whether their condition requires an appointment with a GP or healthcare professional, or if it can be appropriately managed through self-care or seeking advice from a pharmacist, patients can help ensure that those with more urgent needs can be seen promptly.”
Digital apps such as the NHS app have developed to allow people to do tasks such as order repeat prescriptions from home and there is an extensive online digital library of apps for Dorset residents to help people manage their health and conditions themselves. Some, like the BloodPressure@Home app even sends data to the surgery where the patient is registered.
General practice services have continued to demonstrate their commitment to patient care by providing accurate and up-to-date information regarding Covid-19, vaccine rollouts, and other public health initiatives. They have been at the forefront of disseminating crucial health information, debunking myths and addressing concerns, ensuring that patients are well-informed and empowered to make informed decisions about their health.
By embracing these digital tools and alternative ways to engage with patients, implementing strict safety measures, and maintaining continuity of care, GPs have navigated the obstacles posed by the pandemic. As we move forward, general practice services will continue to evolve, helping to ensure that patients receive the safe, timely care, in the right place, with the right person.
For patients at Wyke Regis and Lanehouse Medical, more information about Klinik will be posted on their website and on posters in their surgeries soon. wykeregisandlanehousemedicalpractice.co.uk/index.aspx
