We are pleased to be able to offer an online consultation tool as part of our service. They are a convenient way for you to contact us about your health and can often save you time. Online queries are not always suitable for every situation, to get the best out of the online consultation tool and to ensure it is used safely, please follow the guidance below.
When using the online consultation tool may not be safe
Using online forms or messages for urgent or serious symptoms can sometimes delay the care you need. For example, online consultation tools are not appropriate if you are experiencing:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of a stroke (such as sudden weakness, facial droop, or difficulty speaking)
- Heavy bleeding
- Sudden confusion or collapse
- Any situation where you feel your life may be at risk
In these circumstances, please call 999 immediately or go straight to the nearest Accident & Emergency department.
When to call us
- If your problem is urgent but not life-threatening, please telephone the practice so that we can assess and advise you quickly.
How to use our online consultation tool safely
Online consultation tools work best for:
- Routine queries
- Requests for sick notes for a condition already assessed by a clinician at the surgery
- Non-urgent health advice
- Follow-up questions about existing conditions
By using the service appropriately, you help us to keep it safe and effective for everyone. Please be aware that if the number of queries rises above safe capacity then the queries may be added to a waiting list to be answered at a future date.
Patients are encouraged to check if an alternative service could answer their query.
For example:
- If the query is about a hospital appointment or visit – contact the hospital department
- If it is about a medication – you can use the NHS app to request repeat medication or send a query, alternatively contact your community pharmacy or our dispensary team on 01538 753114 if you are a dispensing patient
Thank you for your understanding and for helping us provide the best possible care for you and all our patients.