Online GP services in York ‘risk deepening health inequalities’

There could be a bigger health divide in areas of York - as more GP appointments are given virtually, reports have warned.

Healthwatch York said there still needs to be face-to-face appointments for those with complex health problems.

Even though the use of telephone and online consultations during Covid-19 have actually increased the number of appointments available, in-person consultations shouldn't be ruled out.

Also, information collected over the past seven months shows many patients have struggled to get appointments, or even get through to their surgery at all.

Healthwatch North Yorkshire are encouraging people to share their views:

Professor Mike Holmes, chair of NIMBUSCARE and a GP in York, said it's about finding a balance between in-person and virtual appointments.

He also said the report reflected “the true strain that general practice is under.”

What people have said:

“I am appalled by the lack of patient care from my GP practice. I am put on hold for hours to find that no same day appointments are available.”

Another said they found it “literally impossible” to speak to their GP, while another said they were “genuinely scared” to contact their surgery.

Healthwatch York concluded:

“What we must now collectively work on are ways of improving access for those least able to communicate in a digital-by-default society.

"The key to this is patients working together with general practice to get this right."

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