GIFFORDS Surgery would like to say a huge thank you to all its patients who have responded positively to the new online request form which was introduced two weeks ago.
The surgery has said the new system is proving to be hugely successful with most contacts being responded to within the same working day.
“In the first two weeks the practice received more than 1,800 online consultations,” says a spokesperson for the surgery.
“In response to some concerns raised by its patients, Giffords wish to re-affirm that as we have always advised those patients who do not have access to the online system are still able to contact the surgery via telephone or in person.
“All our appointments and requests are dealt with in the same way. Our friendly team are happy to complete the online form for you which will then be submitted as an econsult to our Triage GP. We wish to assure all our patients, that we ensure equity for all in accessing an appointment and particularly the elderly who may have some concerns, that this new system will not change the service we offer and you can contact the practice using your preferred method.
“We would strongly advise and encourage patients who can do so, to use the online system through the Giffords website https://giffordssurgery.webgp.com/ or via the advice section within the NHS App. Whether you complete the consultation form yourself online or we complete the form for you, it is important to include as much information as possible so that we can arrange the appropriate clinical action as quickly as possible.”
Managing partner Emma Fletcher, said, “We have been hugely impressed with how the new system is working. We can already see the significant improvements to our patients, who no longer need to worry about trying to get through on the telephone.
Speedy response
“We are able to respond speedily to patients with an offer of an appointment in the majority of cases on the same day and certainly within 24 hours. There may be the odd occasion, due to a significant surge in demand or staff sickness, that we may have to respond within 48 hours; this would only be under extreme or unusual circumstances. Most of our patients have been extremely positive about the new system.
“Our navigation team have also commented on the huge difference this has made and we are seeing a significant drop in verbal abuse to our staff. I would like to say thank you to our patients who have responded positively to the new system. I also thank our valuable team and Care Navigators who have worked hard to make the system work as well as it has. Also, to our Patient Participation Group who have supported the move. We are excited about the coming months and we will continue to work hard to ensure we provide the best possible service to our patients.”
Quicker and easier
The spokesperson added, “We ask all our patients next time you contact the surgery to give the econsult system a go if you can; you will find the service quicker and easier than ever before. We will publicise forthcoming drop-in sessions where we will have our team available so that patients can learn about the system. In the coming weeks we will install tablets in the waiting room so that patients can complete the form at the practice. We also have paper copy forms available in the practice.
“Our Commitment to You – The health and well-being of our patients remains our top priority. As part of the NHS’ Digital Transformation Strategy we will continue to work with our ICB to embrace technological advances. This digital transition reflects our commitment to providing you with cutting-edge, patient-centric access to healthcare.”
Spa Surgery will also be going live with econsult on Monday 22nd January and joining Giffords and Bradford on Avon practices as part of their Primary Care Network strategy to improve access and the overall patient experience.
