Understanding digitally excluded patient experiences when accessing GP appointments remotely
In 2020/21 we worked in partnership with Darlington Primary Care Network and Healthwatch England on a joint project to understand patient experiences of those who have used GP surgeries during the pandemic.
We wanted to understand new barriers that some patients may be facing as health professionals adapt to using ‘digital’ appointments within primary health services.
Both the local 'Darlington' report and national report offer an insight into the complexities patients have faced when accessing digital healthcare during the pandemic and what we think health services can consider to address these barriers moving forward in the future.
Local report
Our local report highlights the barriers local patients living in Darlington have faced when accessing digital healthcare.
In our research we found that for the most part, remote consultations have worked well and have created some great opportunities for a different way of working for professionals, and a more convenient way for patients to access services.
However this report also highlights some of the difficulties faced by local people especially those from socially deprived areas who may not have access to digital equipment such as laptops, tablets and smart phones, or who cannot afford the extra data needed.
National Report
Locked out: Digitally excluded people’s experiences of remote GP appointments
The move to more digitally-led healthcare has worked well for some but excluded others over the past year. Healthwatch England's national report explores how people have been excluded and what needs to happen to get the care they need.
The new report investigates why people have been excluded, including lack of digital skills, language barriers and lack of interest in using technology to go online.
They have identified five principles for post-COVID-19 care to ensure everyone has access to the appointments they need.
If you have any questions about our local report please get in touch we would love to hear from you.
01325 380145 (Please leave a message)
