England NHS policy encourages general practices to implement alternatives to face-to-face consultations to improve access to healthcare and reduce GP workload. But University of Bristol researchers found there isn’t much evidence on their use or effectiveness. The researchers studied how technological alternatives to GP consultations were being used in general practices (urban and rural) and in a variety of socioeconomic areas. They found some potential benefits, but also significant barriers to implementation, as practices responded to incentives without a clear rationale or clearly thinking through the costs and benefits for patients and staff. The study suggests policy-driven, top-down approaches using financial incentives to encourage adoption of alternative consultation methods isn’t the best way forward if efficiencies are to be made. It indicates practices should take a tailored approach based on the needs of their clients and resources for equitable delivery of care.
NBHC Care Experience