The programme is taking a ‘digital-first’ approach to extend and improve the use of information technologies in GP Practices. There are a range of innovative projects within this workstream to help release GP time to focus on complex cases.

The key areas being implemented include providing –

• on-line access for patients for patients to book appointments
• on-line access to order repeat prescription
• ‘Outcome Manager’ to improve recording, reporting, recall and monitoring of patients who are consulted as part of enhanced services.
• surgery pods for patients as an alternative to seeing a doctor if that’s appropriate
• self-service check-in kiosks to release reception staff time
• electronic patient call/notice boards to provide education, and release reception staff time
• ‘Vision Anywhere’ to support mobile working by allowing clinicians to access a patient record and update clinical notes out with the practice, at the point of care
• video conferencing equipment as an educational tool allowing a group of clinicians and or practice staff to join a VC session, cluster working or remote care home consultation.

Donald Wilson, Head of e-health/ICT and lead officer for this area of the programme says significant progress has been made in each of these areas over the last 12 months: “We’ve made real headway in implementing our digital first approach. Practices really have engaged and responded positively to support and investment being provided through the programme.”