The Times revealed yesterday that a new \u2018virtual\u2019 GP service is being launched to offer video consultations within two hours over a smartphone.<\/p>\n
Called \u2018GP at Hand\u2019, the new service, available to any patient in London, has been agreed to by NHS England which is reported as saying \u201cGP practices are right to carefully test technologies that can improve free NHS services for patients while also freeing staff time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Critics are anxious about the possible impact of this new development on the existing, traditional GP practices, methods and services.<\/p>\n
Concerns have been expressed about an array of possible negative effects of the new route to GP access, with the following criticisms:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tThe service may be inaccessible by the elderly and mentally ill, and unsuitable to other groups such as pregnant women, thus effectively creating a two-tier system<\/p>\n
\u2022\tMany GPs may be diverted to the new service, thereby reducing access to services at traditional GP surgeries<\/p>\n
\u2022\tThe new style of consultation will, in the view of Richard Vautrey, chairman of the British Medical Association GP committee, as quoted in The Times, \u201crisk undermining the quality and continuity of care.\u201d<\/p>\n
Medical Negligence<\/p>\n
If you have been the victim of substandard medical care, you may be able to make a claim for compensation for your pain and suffering.<\/p>\n
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence, to discuss your case with an experienced solicitor.<\/p>\n
Please call us on 0800 234 3300<\/a> (or from a mobile 01275 334030<\/strong><\/a>) or complete our Online Enquiry Form<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n
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