More people are now reaching out to GPs online, according to statistics

Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that a growing number of people in England are contacting their general practitioners (GPs) via online channels rather than by telephone. Figures from a three-week period in mid-September indicate that just over 43% of patients used online methods to reach their GP, slightly higher than the 41% who called by phone.

This trend follows a government mandate requiring all NHS practices to provide online appointment booking services starting in October. The government reports that over eight million patients accessed online consultations in October, marking a 20% increase from September.

The British Medical Association (BMA) has expressed concerns that the changes could overwhelm surgeries and compromise patient safety. The organization is currently in a formal dispute with the government over these adjustments.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting, however, welcomed the data, describing it as "a major step" toward eliminating the early morning rush for GP appointments. According to the ONS, 43.3% of patients used online tools, including the NHS app or their local practice website, between September 16 and October 9.

The government requires online appointment services to be available from 08:30 to 18:00, Monday through Friday, and nearly all GP practices in England now comply. Patients can not only book non-urgent consultations but also submit questions, describe symptoms, and request a callback.

NHS England noted that online GP access is becoming more convenient and highlighted the popularity of the service among patients.

Nevertheless, the BMA warns that urgent requests may not be properly triaged, potentially putting patients at risk. Dr. David Wrigley, deputy chair of the BMA's General Practice Committee for England, stated that the software does not distinguish between routine and urgent requests, raising safety concerns.

Healthwatch England, a patient advocacy group, also raised issues, pointing out that some patients have not been adequately informed about the system, particularly that online booking should not be used for emergencies. They noted that certain practices limit online bookings to morning hours and that individuals with lower digital literacy may struggle to use the platform effectively.

All GP practices in England are now required to offer online booking, providing patients with a digital option to arrange appointments with their doctors.

Author: Sophia Brooks