What is eConsult?
eConsult equips NHS GP practices with the tools to facilitate online consultations, allowing patients to share their symptoms or inquiries with their local doctors through digital means. The platform provides uninterrupted access to NHS self-help materials, information on available services, and a tool for symptom assessment. As the leading digital triage solution in NHS primary care, eConsult was designed by NHS GPs for NHS patients, with the objective of enhancing patient accessibility and improving the efficiency of practices while ensuring timely and appropriate care. Currently utilized in 3,330 NHS practices, eConsult enables millions of patients to connect with their GPs online. Patients can easily interact with their NHS GP by completing a short form, which is subsequently evaluated by the practice. Furthermore, eConsult offers guidance toward self-help resources, consultations with pharmacies, and access to local self-referral services when appropriate. The system allows GPs to manage an eConsult efficiently, typically requiring only 2-3 minutes for each submission, thus streamlining the delivery of healthcare services. This modern methodology not only improves the patient experience but also enhances the operational flow within GP practices, ultimately making healthcare services more accessible and efficient than ever before. Overall, eConsult represents a significant advancement in integrating technology into healthcare, reflecting a shift towards more patient-centered care.