It’s often difficult trying to get a GP appointment. If you’re experiencing ill health or need to be seen by a medical professional, there’s a chance that you could be waiting for some time. It can be challenging having to wait to see a doctor, especially if you feel that your issues are a matter of urgency.
GP surgeries are busier than ever, making it almost impossible to book an appointment and be seen on the same day. Although this varies, the high demand for doctor appointments is making it more tedious to speak with a doctor directly. The typical patient waits roughly 20 days for a GP appointment, which is a long time if you’re desperate for medical advice.
The recent pandemic saw a shift in GP surgeries – online booking systems and telephone appointments were encouraged to prevent viruses from being spread. Although this was a great initiative, older and less tech-savvy patients struggled to keep up with technical alternatives. So, just how difficult is it to get a GP appointment and are online consultations the way forward? For more information, continue reading.
Why is it Important to Have Access to a GP?
Being able to see a GP on demand is useful. Doctors have an increased workload, and it can be frustrating having to wait for long periods of time to see someone. Your health and well-being are incredibly important, and it’s crucial that you’re able to see a professional when you need to.
Experienced GPs help prevent illnesses before they even start, with the ability to notice symptoms before you notice them yourself. Whether it’s a check-up or an appointment to check on an ongoing health condition, GPs are there to guide you in the right direction and prescribe you the medicine that you might need.
Doctors are there to help with both physical and mental health – if you’re unwell and need advice, seeing a GP is essential. Regardless of your age, size, weight or gender, a registered GP will be able to assist you in taking the next steps, whether that be having to visit a hospital or being referred to therapy.
Building a long-lasting relationship with your GP can take time, but if your issues are ongoing, it’s important to be as open and honest about your problems as you can be. Although trying to get a GP appointment can prove to be difficult in certain circumstances, it’s vital that you maintain good health and speak with a GP when needed, whether that be online or in person.
Why are Online GP Appointments Beneficial?
Being able to travel to your local GP isn’t an option for some. Perhaps you’re struggling with mobility issues or simply want to confine to your GP in the comfort of your own home. For many patients, it’s safer to chat with a doctor online – here at DAM Health, we understand the challenges people face when it comes to attending in-person appointments, which is why we offer expert online services.
Online appointments are no different than clinic appointments – you’re still able to express any ongoing concerns about your health and get the right advice. With viruses circulating all the time, it’s understandable why so many patients avoid visiting a clinic. By attending an online appointment, you can expect the same level of expertise and efficiency as in-person consultations.
It can be hard trying to find an appointment that works around your work and social life. Online appointments offer flexibility, allowing you to take a call from any location. Perhaps you’re working on a tight deadline and don’t have time to travel to a clinic. Regardless of where you are in the world, you’ll be able to speak with online GPs simply by flipping up your laptop screen.
It’s no secret that online consultations are more efficient than in-person NHS GP consultations. In most cases, you’ll be able to book an online appointment and be seen the same day, which can come as a relief to many people. The convenience and overall simplicity of being able to speak to a GP online are most advantageous. There’s nothing worse than feeling anxious about your health, even more so when you know there’s a long wait time to be seen.
If the past couple of years during the pandemic (COVID-19) has taught us anything, it’s that you should try your hardest to avoid being around people who are ill. Picking up viruses is common when you’re sitting in a waiting room for long periods of time, so if you’re able to avoid these confined spaces, it’s best to do so.
What to Expect From an Online GP Appointment
Online GP appointments are similar, if not the same, as in-person consultations. You can expect online GPs to perform with the highest standard of efficiency. Online GPs ask more in-depth questions, with a clear aim to get to the root cause of your issue.
It’s safe to say we’ve all felt slightly rushed from time to time at clinic-based appointments, and it’s totally understandable with the continuous strain on GP practices. Patients are wanting to be seen faster now more than ever, which isn’t always possible when clinics are back to back with pre-booked appointments all week.
You can expect immediate access to book a GP, with the choice to choose a time and date that’s best suited for you when you go down the route of online appointments. Dealing with online GPs doesn’t limit you in any way – if anything, online consultations have proven to be more thorough than seeing a doctor face to face.
Patients conversing online will still be able to get sick notes, referral letters and repeat prescriptions. Online doctors and clinicians are highly trained individuals, with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry. You can benefit from avoiding queues and waiting lists by booking your first online appointment today.
How DAM Health Can Help
If this blog has inspired you to book a GP appointment online, look no further than DAM Health. We are your expert medical professionals on demand. Get instant access to a GP from any location across the globe. You can skip the queues and book a time that’s most convenient for you.
Our NHS-trained doctors deal with both adults and children, with the ability to prescribe medication, and provide sick notes and referral letters – our experience is a more efficient alternative to clinic consultations. You’ll have the choice between a female or male GP, who can help with an array of issues regarding your health. To find out more information and to book your online appointment, visit our contact us page.