The Public Experience: Digital access to health services
Download (PDF 556.87 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch North Yorkshire explored public experiences when accessing health services using digital systems set up by their GP practices and/or the NHS app. They report discusses the reasons why people use digital methods, their willingness to use such methods for healthcare, what they like about digital access and why they might not use them, and what can be done to improve their experiences.
In conclusion, Healthwatch found that:
- People found it easy to use digital methods for booking appointments, ordering repeat prescriptions and seeing test results.
- Choice is key; digital access should be one of the available options, so it can be used where appropriate.
- With support and information, people are willing to try digital health services where it seems appropriate and can help them/fit with their lifestyle. Providers should investigate this further to ensure equity of access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas.
Healthwatch recommend that it is important for service providers to ensure that digital methods work well and are easy to use, are available for all who want to use them, users are involved in their design and they are accurate and up to date.