What happens after I submit an online consultation?
Once you have submitted your online consultation, it will be reviewed by the most appropriate member of our clinical or administrative team. We may respond with advice, arrange an appointment, request further information, or direct you to another suitable service.
When will I receive a response?
We aim to review online consultations as quickly as possible during practice opening hours. Response times may vary depending on the nature and urgency of your request.
Can I submit an online consultation on behalf of someone else?
Yes, you can submit an online consultation for a child or for someone you care for, provided you have the appropriate authority or consent to do so.
Can I use an online consultation for any medical problem?
Online consultations are suitable for many routine and non-urgent medical concerns, administrative requests, medication queries, and requests for advice.
However, they should not be used for medical emergencies or urgent conditions requiring immediate attention.
What if my problem is urgent?
If you need urgent medical advice, please contact the practice by telephone.
For urgent medical help when the practice is closed, contact NHS 111.
For a life-threatening emergency, such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulties, stroke symptoms, or serious bleeding, call 999 immediately.
Do I still need to call the practice?
Many requests can be managed entirely through the online consultation system, meaning you may not need to phone the practice. However, if more information is needed, a member of the team may contact you.
Will I always be offered an appointment?
Not necessarily. Depending on your needs, we may:
- Provide advice by text message, email, or telephone.
- Arrange a telephone consultation.
- Book a face-to-face appointment.
- Signpost you to a more appropriate service.
- Resolve your query without the need for an appointment.
Can I request a Fit Note through an online consultation?
Yes. If you have been unable to work due to illness for more than seven calendar days, you can submit a Fit Note request through our online consultation service. Please provide details of your illness and the dates of your absence.
Can I request medication through an online consultation?
Repeat prescriptions should normally be ordered through the NHS App, online services, or your usual prescription ordering method. However, medication queries may be submitted through an online consultation.
Can I request test results through an online consultation?
You can often view your test results through the NHS App or online patient services without contacting the practice. If you have questions about your results, an online consultation may be appropriate once the results have been reviewed by a clinician.
Is my information secure?
Yes. Online consultations are submitted through secure NHS-approved systems and are treated confidentially in the same way as any information held within your medical record.
What information should I include?
The more information you provide, the easier it is for us to assess your request. Please include:
- Details of your symptoms or query.
- How long the problem has been present.
- Any treatments you have already tried.
- Any concerns or questions you would like addressed.
Providing complete information helps us ensure you receive the right care from the right person as quickly as possible.
Can I submit photographs?
For some requests, you may be able to upload photographs. If requested, please ensure images are clear, well lit, and focused on the area of concern. Do not use photographs for emergency conditions.
What if I do not have internet access?
If you are unable to use online services, please contact the practice by telephone and a member of the team will assist you.
Save Time with the NHS App
The NHS App allows you to:
- Order repeat prescriptions.
- View available test results.
- Access parts of your health record.
- Manage appointments.
- Receive messages from your GP practice.
Using the NHS App may mean you do not need to contact the practice for many routine requests.
Tips for Getting the Best Response from Your Online Consultation
Providing clear and detailed information helps our team assess your request more effectively and ensures you receive the right care from the right person as quickly as possible.
✅ Tell Us What the Problem Is
Briefly describe:
- What symptoms or issue you are experiencing.
- How the problem is affecting you.
- Any concerns or questions you would like answered.
Example:
“I have had a sore throat and cough for 5 days. The cough is worse at night and is affecting my sleep.”
✅ Tell Us When It Started
Let us know:
- When your symptoms began.
- Whether they are improving, staying the same, or getting worse.
Example:
“The symptoms started last Thursday and have gradually worsened.”
✅ Include Any Relevant Medical Information
Please tell us:
- Any long-term medical conditions you have.
- Any medications you are taking.
- Any recent treatment, tests, or hospital visits related to the problem.
✅ Explain What You Have Already Tried
Tell us if you have:
- Taken any medication.
- Used self-care measures.
- Sought advice elsewhere.
This helps us avoid recommending treatments you have already tried.
✅ Upload Clear Photographs (If requested)
If your online consultation allows image uploads:
- Ensure photographs are clear and in focus.
- Use good lighting.
- Take close-up and wider images where appropriate.
- Do not submit photographs for emergency conditions.
✅ Provide Accurate Contact Details
Please make sure your telephone number and email address are up to date so we can contact you if necessary.
✅ Tell Us Your Preferred Contact Method
Where possible, let us know whether you would prefer:
- A telephone call.
- A text message.
- An email.
- A face-to-face appointment (if appropriate).
Please note that the practice will determine the most appropriate response based on clinical need.
❌ Avoid Submitting Multiple Requests for the Same Issue
Submitting duplicate online consultations may delay processing and can make it more difficult for us to review your enquiry efficiently.
❌ Do Not Use Online Consultations for Emergencies
Online consultations are not monitored continuously and should not be used for urgent or life-threatening medical problems.
For:
- Chest pain
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Signs of a stroke
- Severe bleeding
- Loss of consciousness
Call 999 immediately.
For urgent medical advice when the practice is closed, contact NHS 111 by calling 111 or using the NHS 111 online service.
Top Tip 💡
The more information you provide, the more likely it is that your request can be dealt with quickly without needing a further appointment or follow-up message. Clear, complete information helps us ensure you receive the most appropriate care as efficiently as possible.
Before You Submit an Online Consultation: Patient Checklist ✅
To help us assess your request and provide the most appropriate care, please take a moment to check the following before submitting your online consultation.
About Your Problem
☐ I have clearly described my symptoms, concern, or request.
☐ I have explained how long the problem has been present.
☐ I have included details of any changes, such as whether the problem is improving, worsening, or staying the same.
☐ I have mentioned any relevant long-term medical conditions.
☐ I have listed any medication I am currently taking that may be relevant.
Supporting Information
☐ I have included details of any treatment, self-care, or over-the-counter medication I have already tried.
☐ I have included any recent test results, hospital attendances, or specialist involvement if relevant.
☐ If asked to upload photographs, I have provided clear, well-lit images.
Contact Information
☐ My telephone number is correct and up to date.
☐ My email address is correct and up to date.
☐ I am available to answer calls from the practice if further information is required.
Choosing the Right Service
☐ I have checked whether my request can be managed through the NHS App instead.
The NHS App can be used to:
- Order repeat prescriptions
- View available test results
- Access parts of your medical record
- Manage appointments
- Receive messages from your GP practice
Before You Press Submit
☐ I have provided enough information for the practice to understand my request.
☐ I have checked for spelling mistakes and missing information.
☐ I am submitting only one request for this issue and have not submitted multiple forms for the same problem.
Important
❌ Do not use an online consultation for medical emergencies.
If you have:
- Chest pain
- Severe shortness of breath
- Signs of a stroke
- Severe bleeding
- Loss of consciousness
Call 999 immediately.
- For urgent medical advice when the practice is closed, contact NHS 111.