Patients across the Isle of Wight are being supported to access online NHS services thanks to a growing network of Digital Care Coordinators working in GP practices across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
The coordinators are helping residents who are digitally excluded to get set up on the NHS App – a secure platform that allows patients to order prescriptions, make appointments, and view test results from their own homes.
More than 62% of people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are now using the NHS App to manage their healthcare needs, with coordinators providing one-to-one help to those less confident with technology.
Kay, a Digital Care Coordinator at a GP practice in Hampshire, said:
“I have been working as a Digital Care Coordinator for the last year, and I really enjoy helping patients get the best out of the NHS App and use all of its features.
“There are so many people in our community who struggle with technology, and my role allows me to show them how to use the app to order repeat prescriptions, book appointments, view their health records and many other things.
“I see patients both at the practice and in their own homes, helping them to realise the benefits of being able to log in and use the app to help with their medical care.”
The NHS App allows patients to view their GP health record and manage their conditions without needing to phone their surgery. Notifications can also be switched on so that patients receive messages directly from their GP practice.
James Roach, Director of Primary Care and Local Care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said:
“Our Digital Care Coordinators are becoming an integral part of our GP practices, supporting those in our communities who have struggled to get online and use the services available via the NHS App.
“Our GPs are seeing record numbers of patients each week, and by having specialists like Kay in our practices, it ensures that patients can stay up to date with their medical treatment at their own convenience.”
The initiative supports the NHS 10-year health plan to expand access to care within local communities and encourage more patients to manage their health digitally.
Those who feel they or someone they know could benefit from digital support are encouraged to contact their GP surgery to speak with a Digital Care Coordinator.
Obviously getting ready for digital ID’s