GP access and technology
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Healthwatch Tameside conducted a survey during the Coronavirus pandemic and collected data up until the 24th June 2020 from 260 people. They were collecting information about accessing GPs and the use of technology to do so.
The report found that there were mixed experiences of using technology to access GP services. Positive experiences involved having check-up calls, information and medical reviews, however, others experienced cancelled appointments, GPs not answering, and PPE masks being used when talking to people who need to lip read. People valued not having to sit in a waiting room and receiving texts from GPs, although some experienced issues with online prescriptions and difficulty hearing on the phone. Consideration should be given to those with communication needs, and people need to be confident that their information is protected and highlighted the need for privacy.
No recommendations were made in the report.