Shake up to Doctors surgeries
The Government have ambitious plans to make it easier for us all to see a Doctor in future. Utilising technology, Skype, email and phone consultations are proposed along with longer surgery opening times. It is proposed that surgeries will open 7 days per week.
There are currently only 1,147 surgeries across the whole of the UK.
Elderly people, those aged over 75 will have individual care plans and a named GP who is responsible for their care. They will also have same – day access to a Doctor.
Part of this initiative is to reduce the number of elderly people arriving at A&E departments because they couldn’t get to see a Doctor.
Having just written this short piece I read in my local paper that one in my town has been approved to run a weekly pilot video surgery for six months as part of the Prime Ministers Challenge Fund. Video consultations using free Skype software may be a more convenient way for patients to consult with their doctor and will be offered as an option for patients requesting appointment.
It does make sense to keep those patients who take up valuable time with coughs and colds at home and not in the surgery waiting rooms spreading germs when there is little a Doctor can do.
Hello Robert,
I do agree with the use of technology especially as Doctors are so busy. At least this should reduce waiting times to see a Doctor and will filter out time wasters.
Hi Caron
That is all very interesting. It is good to see doctors coming into the 21st century!!
Excellent report, Caron – thank you.