There has been a significant rise in the number of people using online GP consultations across Teesside during the Coronavirus lockdown and doctors want to encourage others to use them.
GPs are urging people not to delay seeking treatment if they are unwell and as well as phone and video consultations, what are known as e-consultations, available in many practices across Teesside, are being used increasingly as people get to grips with the new technology available.
Dr Janet Walker, Medical Director, NHS Tees Valley Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said. ‘Simply visit your practice website and complete a short online form. You will receive a response the next working day. There is a wealth of information available, including a symptom checker, self-help guides and videos, pharmacy advice, link to NHS 111 and help to request a repeat prescription or to see a GP face to face if you have to.’
Health officials have seen a steady increase in the number of people accessing their GP this way and during the Coronavirus lockdown this technology has really come into its own.
Dr Walker added, ‘GPs are still at work and there to help. We are all getting used to different ways of doing things and we really want to thank people across Teesside for embracing this new technology and helping the NHS.’
If you feel unwell please call your GP or call NHS 111.