Get the Care you needQuicker Posted or Updated on 4 Dec 2024

Get The Care You Need Quicker will be a multimedia campaign with local newspaper, radio, social media, and digital advertising to drive residents’ awareness of the key ways to get the care they need including:

• Using digital tools to access care – including the NHS App, online consultation platforms, and NHS and GP websites for information and to book appointments
• Promoting the range of self-referral services that patients can use to get care – without having to contact their GP surgery
• Visiting community pharmacy for healthcare advice and medication where appropriate
• Seeing a wider team of healthcare professionals at their GP surgery.

Here are some of the ways that patients can access care more quickly and easily:

Use digital tools to access care

The NHS App makes it much easier for patients to access their healthcare information and book services when it’s convenient for them. New developments in the NHS App mean patients can access their health records, find out test results, book appointments and order repeat prescriptions.

Other online tools, such as the NHS and local GP practice websites can help people manage their health and discover what services are local to them. Many practices across mid and south Essex are using online consultation platforms so patients can contact their practice without needing to come into the surgery or wait on the phone. All patients are triaged the same way, regardless of how they book their appointments.

Refer yourself

Residents can now refer themselves to a range of healthcare and wellbeing services without needing an appointment at their GP surgery. This route can offer quicker access to a range of services, from physiotherapy to mental health support, making it easier than ever to get the help they need.

Visit a pharmacy

Local pharmacies offer an easy and convenient way to get clinical advice on a range of conditions. Patients do not need an appointment and can be seen in a private consultation room, if needed. Pharmacists have the right clinical training to make sure patients get the help they need. They can also provide medicines for some common health conditions, such as sore throats, conjunctivitis, earache and shingles. Pharmacists also offer blood pressure checks, vaccinations, contraceptive health, and wider health and wellbeing advice.

See a wider team of experts at your GP surgery

More healthcare professionals are being recruited to work alongside GPs at local practices delivering care and support. Having access to a range of professionals means you will receive the most appropriate care as quickly as possible. MSK is the access to Physiotherapy services 01268 904 102

MSK Self referral QR code.pdf