October 1, 2018 10.51 am This story is over 74 months old

Online GP consultations launch in North Lincolnshire

There will also be a new appointment scheme
Photo: File/Dreamstime

Over 70,000 patients across North Lincolnshire can now access 24/7 online consultations with their GP practice after the introduction of new technology.

NHS North Lincolnshire CCG launched technology in six GP practices across the region to bring together patients who want to consult online, which in many cases avoids the need to make a visit to the practice altogether.

The launch follows a successful trial with three North Lincolnshire practices which have been using the technology for the past six months, including Riverside Surgery in Brigg.

How will it work?

Using a smartphone, tablet or computer, patients can contact a practice through their website about a new problem or an ongoing issue.

The practice then reviews the information and contacts the patient to direct them to the most appropriate point of care, which might mean a phone call or face-to-face appointment with a GP or practice nurse.

The six practices

The practices offering online consultations in North Lincolnshire as of October 1 are:

  • Bridge Street Surgery
  • Dr Rai and Partners (Riverside)
  • Dr S Ahmed (Barnetby)
  • Ancora Medical Practice
  • South Axholme Medical Practie
  • Cambridge Avenue Medical Centre

Director of Primary Care at North Lincolnshire CCG Geoff Day said: “This is great news for patients across North Lincolnshire, who can now access GP support at a time that suits them.

“We hope to extend the programme to at least three more practices by the end of the year.”

Business Manager at Riverside Surgery Michelle Slimm added: “From the patients’ point of view, they’ve got 24-hour access to the surgery.

“For example, if they come home from work late at night and they don’t feel well, they can just contact us online and we’ll pick it up in the morning. It manages time more efficiently.

“We are living and working in a digital age and we need to embrace that technology.”

New appointment scheme

A new scheme has been introduced by NHS North Lincolnshire CCG to ensure local people can routinely see a GP, or other healthcare professional, outside of normal working hours, from October 1.

This includes weekday evenings (6.30pm-8pm), Saturdays (8am-8pm) and Sundays (10am-2pm).