eConsult Update please read:
IMPORTANT eConsult Update 9/5/2022
We are sorry to say that we are switching off eConsults from Tuesday 10th May 2022 at 10:00am until further notice.
With the increase in demand on our appointments and services we are very concerned for Patient Safety and therefore made the decision to switch off eConsult. While eConsult is switched off please request repeat ‘Fit Notes’ via the GP Contact button on our website or via our generic email address [email protected]. This may also be used for general administration queries. However, please DO NOT request appointment bookings via this route as you will be asked to call the surgery.
We will discuss with eConsult and North & Mid Hampshire CCG about how we can move forward using the eConsult system without the fear of missing something important or urgent and compromising patient care and safety.
Please consider speaking with a Pharmacist regarding non-urgent problems. The link below will take you to a list of issues a Pharmacist may be able to assist you with. We are aware this may vary from Pharmacy to Pharmacy but we would appreciate your assistance in trying this route if possible: Pharmacy Ailments
Please where possible register for the ‘NHS App’ or ‘Patient Access’ to request your repeat medication.
Switching eConsult off will increase demand on our telephone lines, the Reception and Admin team will continue to answer calls as quickly and efficiently as possible, so if your query is not urgent, please try to call later in the day rather than at peak times when telephone lines open.
Thank you for your understanding.
The Partners
Bishops Waltham Surgery
How to use eConsult
We use an online service called eConsult. It can be accessed via our website on your computer, mobile or tablet device. This will allow you to get help or advice from your GP online and receive a response by the end of the next working day. This means no more time wasted queuing on the phone or sitting in the waiting area for your appointment.
Watch this video for more information about how eConsult works:
How do I use eConsult and what happens after I submit the form?
- You will have the option to get general advice, help for a specific condition or administrative request.
- Once a condition is chosen, you can access self-help information, access local services and pharmacy advice, or get advice from your GP at the surgery.
- If selecting ‘treatment and advice from my GP’ you will be directed to complete an online form about your symptoms. You will need to confirm that you do not have any symptoms that require immediate or urgent care. Please answer questions as accurately as you can so we can find the best way to help you.
- You will then complete the eConsult online form and provide your phone number and email address at the end.
Following this you will be emailed a confirmation of the consultation and the practice will respond to you within 5 working days (but maybe earlier). We may be able to deal with the issue immediately, or we may book a telephone, video or face-to-face consultation.
| When can I use eConsult? | You can use eConsult at the following times: Monday to Friday – Not available Saturday – Not available Sunday – Not available |
| What happens if I have more than one issue? | Please submit one eConsult per problem. This may mean you are submitting more than one eConsult. This will allow us to gather more accurate information to help you. |
| When will I get a response back? | The clinician will review your response and get back to you by the end of the next working day. We will contact you by phone or by email. |
| What about the Elderly and Vulnerable? | Elderly patients who have access to the internet can use the service, otherwise they can call the surgery as usual on the practice telephone number. |
| What about my Child? | Parents can submit an eConsult on behalf of their children if they are > 6 months. For children < 6 months please phone the surgery. |
| How old do I need to be to use eConsult? | You can submit your own eConsult once you are 16 years old. If you are aged 16-17, to submit an eConsult and select the ‘For your child’ tab. If 18 or over submit your eConsult normally. If you are below 16 and wish to discuss an issue that your parents are not aware of, please phone the surgery to speak to reception. |
| But I need to be seen? | Your eConsult will be reviewed by your GP and if you need to be seen for a face-to-face appointment, you will be advised of this by your GP. |
| What happens if my condition is not listed on eConsult? | If your condition is not listed, please select the option ‘Ask about general symptoms….’ |
| Can I submit photos? | You may be asked to submit a photo with your eConsult to help us diagnose you. However, please do not include photos of intimate areas – for example genitalia or breasts. See video below for further information on how to upload photos. |
| I completed an eConsult, but I have not heard back from the practice. | This should not happen, however if it does and you have not heard back from the practice by the end of the next working day, please contact the surgery who will deal with this promptly. |
| I have an administrative request. | You can submit admin requests such as requesting a fit note (sick note) by visiting our website, go to the eConsult banner and select administrative requests. |