Coventry & Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group has produced a useful guide to the different types of appointments and support you can expect to receive at your local practice.
Information covered includes:
What kind of appointments are there?
All appointments are triaged over the phone. This means you are asked to describe what is wrong, so that we can make sure you have an appointment with the most appropriate person.
GP practices can offer you:
- a face-to-face appointment – where you see a see a healthcare professional in person
- a video or telephone appointment – where you speak with a healthcare professional over the phone or on a video call from your mobile phone, tablet or computer
- an e-consultation – where you complete a form on your GP practice’s website (if available) detailing your medical concerns, which is reviewed by a healthcare professional
Did you know that your GP practice is home to a team of healthcare professionals?
GP practices, or networks of GP practices, are now home to a range of health professionals who can diagnose and treat you. If it is most appropriate for you to see a doctor, you will be offered an appointment with a GP. However, a GP is not always the best person for you to see.
In addition to your doctor, there may also be a clinical pharmacist, physiotherapist or a health and wellbeing coach. There are also social prescribers, who can signpost you to a range of support services in your local community. The different roles are experts in different areas, which helps ensure you are seen by the person best suited to your needs.
Find out more – read the short guide: NHS Guide to Practices A5