The healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, and primary care is at the forefront of this transformation. Data has highlighted a significant increase in online video GP appointments, particularly during the spring of 2024. The statistics are described as “experimental” and may be affected by how modes of appointment are captured, based on location. However, the trend illustrates that primary care is reshaping how patients interact with healthcare providers, making access to medical care more convenient and efficient than ever before.
What is driving the rise of video GP Appointments?
According to an article by HTN, primary care has seen a marked rise in the use of online video GP appointments. This surge can be attributed to several factors, including the ongoing need for social distancing, the convenience of remote consultations, and the increasing familiarity and comfort with digital health tools among both patients and healthcare providers.
Having a face-to-face consultation with a GP without leaving the comfort of home is a potential game-changer. It not only saves time but also reduces the stress and potential exposure to illnesses that come with in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or individuals with busy schedules.
Enhancing Practice Communication
Introduced in 2021, Video Triage has been available to X-on Health customers for some time. Since its inception, the product has developed significantly and the introduction of the ‘Phonebar’ has changed the communication experience for the better.
The Surgery Connect video call feature allows the clinician to send patients a one-time link via SMS or email by clicking a single button on the ‘Phonebar’ at any time, even during a phone call with the patient. The patient can then engage in a video consultation with a clinician as appropriate.
In the Appointments List, video callbacks to patients will be listed alongside standard phone calls according to their preferred contact method. This flexibility ensures that patients can receive the appropriate level of care for their needs and is crucial in providing timely and accurate medical advice. For instance, a phone consultation can quickly escalate to a video call if a GP needs to visually assess a patient’s condition.
From January 2024 to June 2024 we’ve observed a 14-fold increase in the number of video requests sent, further substantiating the national trend.
Instant Photo Requests and Integration with Clinical Systems
Another significant advantage of the Phonebar is its functionality to request photos from patients during a consultation. This can be particularly useful for diagnosing skin conditions, injuries, or other visual symptoms. Patients can instantly upload images, which are then seamlessly filed back into the clinical system. This integration ensures that all patient information is kept up-to-date and easily accessible for future reference.
Interestingly we have also seen an increase in the usage of photos requested over this year, with a particularly high uptake since April.
Bridging the Gap in Digital Healthcare
The increase in online video GP appointments and the innovations brought by tools like the Phonebar are bridging the gap in digital healthcare. They are making it possible for patients to receive comprehensive care without the need for physical visits. This shift not only enhances patient satisfaction, because it offers more convenient options, but also improves the efficiency of healthcare delivery.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, the trend towards digital consultations is likely to continue growing. Healthcare providers will need to adapt to these changes by adopting and integrating advanced digital tools into their practice. Our Phonebar is a prime example of how technology can be leveraged to improve patient care and streamline operations.
In addition to the Phonebar’s current features, we are excited to announce that transcription and summarisation of voicemails are being added. This will allow healthcare providers to easily review and respond to patient messages, further enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of patient communication.
In conclusion, the significant increase in online video GP appointments is a testament to the evolving nature of primary care. With innovations like the Surgery Connect Phonebar and our new Personalised Call Routing features, the future of healthcare looks promising, with more accessible, efficient, and patient-centered services. This digital transformation is not just a trend but a fundamental shift towards a more modern and effective healthcare system.
