Young People’s experience of accessing GP Booking systems
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Healthwatch Sandwell aimed to investigate young peoples’ experiences, challenges, and issues using GP appointment booking systems, and whether young people are aware of alternative primary care services. They focussed on the experiences of young people in recognition that young people may have specific experiences that differ from adults. A youth volunteer led this project and distributed a survey questionnaire to students in their school. 46 students aged 11-18 completed the questionnaire.
Most respondents preferred to book appointments in person at the reception, although most appointments were made by the respondents’ parents. Most respondents didn’t know who their GP was, but had good knowledge of alternative places to get help, including 111, A&E, and pharmacies. Based on their findings, Healthwatch Sandwell make the following recommendations:
The NHS Black Country Integrated Care Partnership and associated Board to raise awareness of alternative booking systems with parents, perhaps publicity via schools, especially the NHS digital app and GP for online booking.
The NHS Black Country Integrated Care Partnership and associated Board to promote and monitor the provision of online booking systems for GP appointments.
GP surgeries that do not offer on line booking, to consider providing this option.
NHS England to develop and create apps which include email/phone call alerts and digital receipts from the booking.