Patient Partner: Empowering Patients for Better Health

Healthcare is constantly evolving, and one of the key aspects of this evolution is the growing emphasis on patient partnership and empowering patients to take control of their own health. The Department of Health and Social Care’s GP contract – Delivery Plan for recovering access to primary care highlights the importance of providing patients with the tools they need to manage their own health effectively. At Voice Connect, we strongly believe in the power of patient empowerment and strive to support healthcare providers in fostering patient partnerships. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of patient empowerment and the tools available to patients for managing their health.

Understanding Patient Empowerment

Patient empowerment refers to enabling and supporting patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions and take ownership of their health. It involves fostering a collaborative relationship between healthcare professionals and patients, where patients are respected as partners in their care. Empowered patients are more likely to engage in self-care, make informed decisions, and follow treatment plans, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes. The GP Delivery Plan highlights the need to equip patients with the necessary tools to manage their health. By empowering patients, healthcare providers can enhance patient experiences, improve health outcomes, and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

The Tools for Empowering Patients

Advancements in technology have opened up a world of possibilities for patient empowerment. Here are some of the tools and resources available to patients:

1.) Patient Portals and Personal Health Records

Patient portals provide a secure online platform where patients can access their medical records, test results, and appointment information. These portals allow patients to actively engage in their healthcare by reviewing their health data, tracking progress, and communicating with healthcare providers. Personal Health Records (PHRs) enable patients to compile their health information, including medications, allergies, and past medical history, in one convenient location. Access to this information empowers patients to make informed decisions and actively participate in their care.

2.) Mobile Health Applications

Mobile health applications, or health apps, have revolutionised the way patients manage their health. These apps provide a range of features, such as medication reminders, symptom trackers, and fitness trackers. Patients can monitor their vital signs, track their exercise routines, and receive personalised health recommendations. Health apps empower patients by giving them real-time access to their health data and supporting self-care.

3.) Telemedicine and Virtual Consultations

Telemedicine and virtual consultations have become increasingly popular, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. These technologies enable patients to consult with healthcare professionals remotely, eliminating the need for in-person visits. Telemedicine offers convenience, flexibility, and improved access to care, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those living in remote areas. By leveraging telemedicine, patients can actively participate in their healthcare without geographical barriers.

4.) Health Education and Online Resources

Empowering patients requires access to reliable health information and resources. Online platforms, educational websites, and patient forums provide a wealth of information on various health conditions, treatment options, and self-care practices. Patients can educate themselves about their health conditions, stay informed about the latest medical research, and connect with others facing similar challenges. Access to accurate and up-to-date information helps patients make informed decisions and actively contribute to their care.

How Patient Partner Can Help Empower Patients

Patient Partner is a powerful tool that can significantly contribute to patient empowerment by improving access, providing choice, and enhancing the flow of information within the healthcare system. Here are some key ways in which Patient Partner can empower your patients:

1.) Improving Patient Access

Patient Partner allows patients to book appointments and request repeat prescriptions at any time, 24/7. This feature provides convenience and flexibility, empowering patients to manage their healthcare on their own terms. By eliminating the need for phone calls during limited office hours, patients have greater control over their scheduling and can access the care they need when it suits them best.

2.) Allowing Patient Choice

Patient Partner goes beyond standard services by enabling patients to choose from a range of options. For example, patients can select third-party pharmacy referrals. This choice empowers patients to engage in shared decision-making, ensuring their preferences and needs are taken into account.

3.) Recording Information within Clinical Databases

Patient Partner seamlessly integrates with popular clinical databases, including SystmOne, EMIS, and Vision, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information is recorded back to the patient’s record within the surgery. This integration enables patients to have a comprehensive view of their medical history, test results, and treatment plans. By having access to this information, patients can actively participate in discussions with healthcare professionals, making informed decisions about their care. Patient Partner serves as a bridge between patients and healthcare providers, empowering patients to take charge of their health and well-being. By providing improved access, choice, and seamless information flow, Patient Partner promotes patient engagement and supports healthcare organisations in their mission to deliver patient-centred care. If you’re interested in implementing Patient Partner to empower your patients and enhance their healthcare experience, request a DEMO today. Request a Demo

Conclusion

Patient partnership and empowerment are vital components of modern healthcare. The Department of Health and Social Care’s GP contract – Delivery Plan emphasises the importance of empowering patients to manage their health effectively. By utilising tools such as patient portals, health apps, telemedicine, and online resources, patients can actively engage in their healthcare decisions and achieve better health outcomes. At Voice Connect, we are committed to supporting healthcare providers in fostering patient partnerships and providing the tools necessary for patient empowerment. Together, we can create a healthcare system where patients are empowered to take control of their health and play an active role in their care.

Patient Partnership and the Implementation of ‘Modern General Practice

Transforming Primary Care with the Patient at the Centre

In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience and accessibility are paramount, the healthcare sector is undergoing significant transformation. Primary care practices are evolving to meet the changing needs and expectations of patients. The Department of Health and Social Care, in its GP contract – delivery plan for recovering access to primary care, emphasises the importance of patient partnership and implementing ‘Modern General Practice.’ These changes aim to ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care tailored to their individual needs. The key principles outlined in the plan emphasise that patients should know on the day how their request for care will be handled based on clinical need. This level of transparency is crucial in fostering patient confidence and trust in the healthcare system. By providing clear communication about the expected next steps, patients can better understand the process and feel more empowered in managing their own health. Furthermore, the plan recognises and respects patients’ preferences when it comes to the mode of their appointment, whether it be a call, a face-to-face consultation, or an online appointment. This flexibility allows patients to choose the most suitable option based on their circumstances, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of location or mobility constraints. Embracing technology and automation can greatly enhance convenience and reduce barriers to care.

Meeting GP Contract Requirements with Patient Partner

One effective way for practices to meet the requirements outlined in the GP contract is by implementing a Patient Partner system. Patient Partner is a comprehensive solution that combines automated telephony booking and patient engagement tools to enhance the patient experience and support healthcare providers in delivering high-quality care. By leveraging Patient Partner, practices can ensure that patients know how their requests will be handled on the day based on clinical needs. The system can automatically manage incoming requests and allocate appropriate appointments accordingly. This eliminates any uncertainty for patients and ensures that their care is prioritised appropriately. Patient Partner also facilitates patient preferences by offering various appointment options. Patients can choose between a call, a face-to-face consultation, or an online appointment based on their preferences and circumstances. The system streamlines the appointment booking process, allowing patients to easily select the most suitable option and reducing the administrative burden on practice staff. Moreover, Patient Partner promotes patient partnership by providing valuable communication and engagement tools. The system can send automated reminders, notifications, and health-related information to patients, keeping them informed and engaged in their care. Patients can also access their repeat prescription requests and test results and request fit notes via the telephone, empowering them to actively participate in their healthcare journey. Patient Partner’s reporting and analytics capabilities enable practices to monitor and evaluate their performance in meeting the GP contract requirements. The system provides valuable insights into appointment demand, DNA, and resource allocation, enabling practices to make data-driven decisions and continuously improve their services. Implementing Patient Partner not only helps practices meet their GP contract requirements but also enhances efficiency, patient satisfaction, and overall practice performance. By streamlining processes, reducing administrative burdens, and improving communication, practices can focus more on delivering personalised, high-quality care to their patients.

Introducing Patient Partner: Your Gateway to Hassle-free Primary Care

Voice Connect’s Patient Partner is an intelligent system working alongside practices existing telephone provider and clinical database. The software is designed to optimise primary care access and reduce the burden of the 8am telephone rush. By implementing Patient Partner, we aim to improve the patient experience while ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

How Voice Connect can help in Modern General Practice

Patient Partner is a powerful tool, working with SystmOne, Emis and Vision, as well as practising existing telephone suppliers. The cloud-based system helps practices meet their GP contract requirements while enhancing patient engagement, convenience, and access to care. By leveraging the system’s automated triage, appointment booking, and patient communication features, practices can foster patient partnership, streamline operations, and improve overall practice performance. With Patient Partner, practices can embrace the vision of ‘Modern General Practice’ and deliver patient-centred care that meets the evolving needs of today’s healthcare landscape. At Voice Connect, we are committed to supporting healthcare providers in implementing Patient Partners and transforming primary care. Together, we can build a healthcare system that puts the patient at the centre, ensuring access to timely, appropriate, and personalised care.

Patient Partnership and the Implementation of ‘Modern General Practice

In accordance with the Department of Health and Social Care’s GP Contract – Delivery Plan for Recovering Access to Primary Care, Voice Connect is proud to present an innovative solution to address one of the long-standing challenges in healthcare—the 8am telephone rush. As a leading provider of telephony based solutions for the healthcare industry, we recognise the importance of making it easier and quicker for patients to access the care they need. Our Patient Partner system aims to streamline the patient experience and alleviate the strain on Primary Care services during peak hours.

Understanding the Challenges of the 8am Telephone Rush

The 8am telephone rush has been a recurring issue in healthcare settings, where a significant number of patients call their primary care providers at the start of the day to schedule appointments, seek medical advice, or request prescriptions. The surge in call volumes during this time often leads to long wait times, frustrated patients, and overwhelmed staff. Recognising the impact of this rush on both patients and healthcare professionals, the Department of Health and Social Care has emphasised the need for solutions to mitigate these challenges.

Introducing Patient Partner: Your Gateway to Hassle-free Primary Care

Voice Connect’s Patient Partner is an intelligent system working alongside practices existing telephone provider and clinical database. The software is designed to optimise primary care access and reduce the burden of the 8am telephone rush. By implementing Patient Partner, we aim to improve the patient experience while ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

How Does Patient Partner Work?

Efficient Call Routing: Working alongside Emis, SystmOne and Vision, Patient Partner utilises intelligent call routing based on unique surgery rule book and requirements resulting in efficiently managing incoming calls. Appointment Management: Patient Partner empowers patients to take control of their appointments. Through the system, patients can easily book, check, change, and cancel appointments without the need for lengthy phone conversations or call backs. This feature streamlines the process and allows patients to manage their healthcare schedules conveniently at first point of contact with the surgery. Third-Party Care Signposting: Patient Partner goes beyond appointment management by offering additional support. Patients can be seamlessly guided to relevant third-party care options, such as pharmacists or specific healthcare services, ensuring they receive the most appropriate care for their needs. This feature enhances patient navigation and helps individuals access the right resources in a timely manner. Repeat Prescription Requests: Patient Partner simplifies the process of requesting repeat prescriptions. Patients can use the system to submit their prescription requests, eliminating the need for manual phone calls or visits. This functionality saves time for both patients and healthcare providers, streamlining the prescription process. By incorporating these features, Patient Partner empowers patients to take an active role in managing their healthcare needs. The system optimises call routing, facilitates appointment management, provides third-party care signposting, and simplifies prescription requests. Through these capabilities, Patient Partner improves the overall patient experience, increases convenience, and ensures efficient use of resources within primary care practices.

Advantages of Patient Partner

Enhanced Patient Convenience: Patient Partner’s appointment management and prescription request features enable patients to conveniently access primary care services and fulfil their healthcare needs without the hassle of lengthy phone calls or visits. Streamlined Workflow: By automating appointment management and prescription requests, Patient Partner reduces administrative burden and allows healthcare professionals to allocate their time and resources more efficiently. Improved Patient Satisfaction: Patient Partner’s user-friendly interface and self-service capabilities contribute to a positive patient experience, promoting higher satisfaction levels and engagement with primary care services. The cloud based system is available 24/7, meaning that patients can have contact with the surgery outside of opening hours. Optimised Resource Allocation: With Patient Partner facilitating call routing and providing appropriate care signposting, primary care practices can optimise their resources, ensuring that patients are connected to the right healthcare professionals and services promptly. Voice Connect’s Patient Partner revolutionises primary care access by empowering patients and streamlining practice workflows. By embracing this innovative solution, primary care providers can enhance patient experience, improve efficiency, and deliver high-quality care in a more accessible and patient-centric manner.

Embracing the Future of Primary Care Access

Voice Connect understands the importance of patient-centred care and continuously strives to provide innovative solutions to enhance the healthcare experience. By adopting Patient Partner, healthcare practices can significantly reduce the strain caused by the 8am telephone rush, improving patient access, and fostering a more efficient healthcare system. As the Department of Health and Social Care states in its GP Contract – Delivery Plan for Recovering Access to Primary Care, addressing the 8am rush is crucial for easier and quicker access to primary care. With Patient Partner, practices can embrace this commitment and transform the way they deliver care. Book a DEMO for Voice Connect’s Patient Partner today and embark on a journey toward a patient-centric, streamlined primary care experience that benefits patients, healthcare professionals, and the entire healthcare system.

Navigating Patients to the Right Point of Care: A Guide to Effective Signposting in the UK

The Importance of Signposting in Healthcare In today’s NHS and primary care settings

Efficient signposting plays a vital role in ensuring patients receive appropriate care. By directing patients to the correct point of care, healthcare professionals can enhance the patient experience and optimize healthcare resources. In this article, we will explore the importance of signposting patients within the NHS and primary care system and discuss key areas such as vaccinations, appointment eligibility, and signposting to external services.

Vaccinations

Flu, Shingles, and COVID Boosters Vaccinations are an essential aspect of preventive healthcare within the NHS. Effective signposting ensures that patients are aware of and receive the appropriate vaccinations. In the UK, common vaccinations offered through the NHS include flu, shingles, and COVID boosters. The flu vaccine is recommended annually, particularly for individuals who are at higher risk, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions. Signposting these individuals to local GP surgeries, community clinics, or pharmacies ensures they receive timely protection against seasonal flu. Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, primarily affects older adults. The shingles vaccine is available for individuals aged 70 to 79, with a catch-up program for those aged 80 and above. Signposting eligible individuals to their GP surgeries or local vaccination clinics helps healthcare providers ensure timely administration of the shingles vaccine, reducing the risk of painful complications. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, COVID boosters have become a crucial part of the NHS vaccination strategy. Eligibility for COVID boosters may vary based on factors such as age and underlying health conditions. Signposting individuals to designated NHS vaccination centres or local GP clinics helps ensure that they receive the necessary booster doses for added protection against COVID-19.

Appointment Eligibility

Age and Gender Specific Determining appointment eligibility based on age and gender is another important aspect of signposting patients within the NHS and primary care system. Some healthcare services, such as breast and cervical cancer screenings, are gender-specific and targeted towards particular age groups. Breast cancer screenings, including mammograms, are recommended for women aged 50 to 71 in the UK. Signposting women within this age range to their local breast screening units or arranging appointments through their GP surgeries ensures timely access to these important screenings for early detection and improved outcomes. Similarly, cervical cancer screenings, known as smear tests, are offered to women aged 25 to 64. Signposting eligible women to their GP clinics or local sexual health services ensures they receive regular screenings to detect any early signs of cervical abnormalities. By accurately signposting patients based on age and gender, the NHS and primary care providers can facilitate timely access to essential screenings and preventive healthcare services, ultimately promoting better health outcomes for individuals across the UK.

Signposting to External Services

Pharmacy, Mental Health, Physiotherapy In addition to vaccinations and appointment eligibility, effective signposting also involves guiding patients to external services that can support their healthcare needs. Within the NHS and primary care system, pharmacies, mental health services, and physiotherapy play crucial roles in patient care. Pharmacies are often the first point of contact for minor ailments and medication advice. Signposting patients to their local community pharmacies allows them to access over-the-counter medications, receive guidance on self-care, and obtain prescriptions as necessary. Pharmacies also provide valuable support in managing long-term conditions through medication reviews and advice. Mental health services are essential for individuals facing psychological challenges. Signposting patients to appropriate mental health services, such as NHS-run psychological therapies or local counselling services, ensures they receive the necessary support and treatment. Mental health services encompass a range of interventions, including therapy, counselling, and psychiatric care, which can greatly improve patients’ well-being and quality of life. Physiotherapy is instrumental in helping patients manage musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, or rehabilitation after surgery. Signposting patients to NHS physiotherapy services or private clinics specializing in physiotherapy ensures access to expert assessments, personalized treatment plans, and rehabilitation exercises. This aids in relieving pain, restoring mobility, and enhancing overall physical function. Furthermore, signposting patients to external services like community support groups, social services, and specialist clinics specific to their healthcare needs is crucial for comprehensive care. This might include signposting individuals to support groups for chronic conditions, specialist clinics for diabetes management, or community resources for lifestyle modification programs.

Navigating Patients to the Right Point of Care In the UK’s NHS and primary care system

Effective signposting is essential for directing patients to the right point of care. By appropriately signposting patients for vaccinations, ensuring appointment eligibility, and directing them to external services, healthcare professionals can optimize patient experiences, allocate resources efficiently, and ultimately improve health outcomes across the nation. Whether it’s guiding patients to receive crucial vaccinations such as flu, shingles, and COVID boosters, ensuring eligibility for gender-specific screenings like breast and cervical cancer screenings, or signposting individuals to external services such as pharmacies, mental health support, and physiotherapy, effective signposting plays a vital role in providing comprehensive and patient-centred care. By prioritising accurate and targeted signposting, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive the appropriate care at the right time, leading to improved health outcomes and a more efficient and responsive healthcare system in the UK. With clear and accessible signposting, patients can navigate the healthcare system with ease, receiving the care and support they need to maintain and improve their health and well-being.

Enhancing Efficiency and Patient Experience: The Benefits of Automated Telephone Booking in GP Practices

Streamlining Patient Access and Reducing DNA’s

In today’s fast-paced world, where time is of the essence, it’s crucial for healthcare providers to adopt efficient systems that enhance patient access and streamline appointment scheduling. For GP practices, telephone communication remains the primary method of contact for patients. Leveraging automated telephone booking systems can significantly improve the efficiency of appointment management, resulting in enhanced patient experience and reduced DNA’s (did not attend). In this blog post, we explore the numerous benefits of implementing automated telephone booking in GP practices across the UK.

Telephone: The No. 1 Method of Contact to Doctors’ Surgeries

In an era dominated by smartphones and constant connectivity, telephone communication remains the preferred method for patients to reach out to their local GP practices. By implementing an automated telephone booking system, healthcare providers can capitalise on this, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for patients seeking appointments.

Giving Patients Control: Checking, Changing, and Cancelling Appointments

One of the key advantages of automated telephone booking is that it empowers patients with the ability to check, change, and cancel appointments at their convenience. By offering a self-service option, patients can access systems 24/7, without having to wait for the practice’s working hours. This flexibility not only improves patient satisfaction but also reduces the likelihood of DNA’s, as patients have the means to reschedule or cancel their appointments in advance.

Managing Busy Traffic Periods with Ease

Automated telephone booking systems prove particularly invaluable during peak periods, such as Monday mornings or post-bank holidays, when GP practices experience a surge in appointment requests. The system efficiently manages high call volumes and prevents patients from being put on hold for extended periods. By seamlessly distributing incoming calls and intelligently allocating appointments based on availability, automated systems help alleviate the burden on practice staff and ensure timely access to care for patients.

Aligning Appointments with Surgery Skillsets

GP practices often have healthcare professionals with different areas of expertise. It is essential to match patients with the most suitable healthcare provider based on their specific needs. Automated telephone booking systems can be programmed to consider the skillsets of different practitioners, ensuring that patients are directed to the right healthcare professional from the very beginning. This not only optimises the utilisation of resources but also ensures that patients receive appropriate care and expertise during their appointments.

Comprehensive Appointment Management for All Services

GP practices offer various appointment types, ranging from consultations with doctors to nurse visits, vaccinations, and more. An automated telephone booking system can handle the complexity of managing multiple appointment types efficiently. By providing patients with the ability to book the appropriate appointment for their specific needs, the system minimizes errors and reduces the need for rescheduling or redirection, improving both patient satisfaction and overall practice efficiency.

Enhancing Primary Care Access: A Commitment to Tackling the 8am Rush

Pharmacies can now prescribe drugs for seven common ailments, including earache, sore throat, sinusitis, impetigo, shingles, infected insect bites, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. By directing patients to pharmacy services for these conditions, doctors’ surgeries can reduce patient traffic and free up valuable time for GPs to focus on more complex cases.

Benefits of Directing Patients to Pharmacy Services for Common Ailments

• Reduces waiting times for patients
• Reduces workload for GPs
• Improves access to care for patients who may have difficulty accessing primary care services
• Provides patients with access to trained pharmacists who can offer advice and support on how to manage their condition and prevent it from recurring

Request a Demo

The Role of Patient Partner in Directing Patients to Pharmacy Services

Patient partner can play a crucial role in directing patients to pharmacy services for common ailments. The system can help to raise awareness of this service and provide patients with the information they need to access it.

Identifying Patients Who May Benefit from Pharmacy Services

• Working closely with GPs and other primary care professionals to identify patients who may benefit from pharmacy services for common ailments
• Understanding the conditions that can be treated by pharmacists
• Identifying patients who may have difficulty accessing primary care services

Providing Guidance on Accessing Pharmacy Services

• Providing patients with information on how to access pharmacy services
• Encouraging patients to seek professional advice from a pharmacist or GP when they have symptoms of a common ailment
• Addressing any concerns or questions patients may have about using pharmacy services

Educating Patients on the Role of Pharmacists

• Providing patients with information on the role of pharmacists in managing common ailments
• Educating patients on the importance of seeking professional advice when managing their condition
• Encouraging patients to ask their pharmacist for advice on managing their condition and preventing it from recurring

How Patient Partner benefits GP Practices

Patient Partner is a cloud-based virtual receptionist that works seamlessly with leading clinical systems such as Emis, SystmOne, and Vision, as well as the existing surgery phone supplier. This means that Patient Partner can access patient records and appointment schedules in real time, allowing the system to provide accurate and up-to-date information to patients. By working in conjunction with clinical systems, patient partner can help to streamline patient access to services and ensure that patients receive the appropriate care in a timely manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, directing patients to pharmacy services for common ailments can effectively reduce patient traffic and workload for primary care services, particularly in doctors’ surgeries. Patient partner can play a crucial role in this process, providing patients with the information and guidance they need to access these services and working closely with primary care professionals to identify patients who may benefit from them. By working together, primary care services can ease the burden on the system and ensure that patients receive the care they need. With the support of patient partner, patients can be made aware of the services available to them and be empowered to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Patient Partner Enhancing the Patient Experience with Self-Referral Services

In today’s fast-paced world, providing patients with access to reliable and efficient healthcare services is more critical than ever. Patient Partner, automated telephone software by Voice Connect, comes in here. Patient Partner is a cloud-based software solution that enables patients to self-refer for non-urgent medical issues, reducing the workload on GP practices and improving efficiency.

Cloud-Based Solution for Convenient Access

Patient Partner software is a cloud-based solution that enables patients to self-refer for non-urgent medical issues, reducing the workload on GP practices and improving efficiency. Its cloud-based nature allows for convenient access from anywhere with an internet connection, making it highly flexible and easy to use for both patients and healthcare providers.

Clinical Database Integrations for Seamless Patient Record Access

One of the key advantages of Patient Partner is its ability to integrate with a range of clinical databases, allowing healthcare providers to access patient records and other relevant information quickly. Developed in partnership with Emis, SystmOne, and Vision, Patient Partner works by minimising the need for manual data entry and reducing the potential for errors and miscommunications. The system streamlines referral processes and enables healthcare providers to provide the best possible care to patients without the need to change surgery telephone sup

Improved Patient Outcomes with Real-Time Communication

Patient Partner’s self-referral capabilities and real-time communication features improve patient outcomes by reducing the time it takes for patients to receive treatment. Patients can receive confirmation of their self-referral via text message, providing them with peace of mind and an estimated timeframe for the service provider to get in touch. This helps to manage patient expectations and prevent minor issues from developing into more severe problems.

Additional Features for an Enhanced Patient Experience

In addition to its self-referral capabilities, Patient Partner provides a range of other features designed to enhance the patient experience. Its user-friendly interface, referral tracking system, and access to additional healthcare services such as mental health support make it a comprehensive solution for practices of all sizes. Request a Demo

Scalability for Practices of All Sizes

Patient Partner’s cloud-based nature and clinical database integrations make it highly scalable, allowing it to be used by practices and PCN’s of all sizes. Whether a small independent practice or a large healthcare provider, Patient Partner can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of healthcare providers as their patient populations grow and evolve. In conclusion, Patient Partner software by Voice Connect is an innovative solution that can help practices provide a better patient experience. Its cloud-based nature and clinical database integrations make it highly convenient and flexible. At the same time, its self-referral capabilities and real-time communication features improve patient outcomes and build patient confidence. By using Patient Partner, healthcare providers can reduce the workload on GP practices, improve efficiency, and ultimately provide their patients a better standard of care.

How Patient Partner Manages Vaccine Clinics for Flu, Shingles, and COVID Boosters

Patient Partner is a cloud-based software solution designed to help primary care providers manage their practices more efficiently. One of its many features is the ability to manage vaccine clinics for flu, shingles, and COVID-19 boosters, while automatically booking vaccine appointments over the telephone for eligible patients.

The Importance of the GP Contract

Each year, healthcare providers in the UK must offer flu vaccinations to eligible patients as part of the GP contract. The shingles vaccine is also recommended for people over the age of 65. Meeting the GP contract requirements is essential for primary care providers, as it ensures that they are providing the best possible care to their patients and helps maintain their funding. Patient Partner makes it easy for practices to set up and manage flu and shingles clinics by automating the entire booking process. From prompting invitations to eligible patients to managing appointments and reporting to the NHS, Patient Partner ensures that practices comply with the GP contract requirements.

Managing COVID-19 Booster Clinics with Patient Partner

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, healthcare providers in the UK are now offering booster doses to eligible patients. Patient Partner makes it easy for practices to manage COVID-19 booster clinics by identifying eligible patients, organising appointments, and reporting. This helps practices meet the GP contract requirements and ensures that eligible patients receive the booster doses they need to stay protected against the virus. Patient Partner works with existing surgery clinical databases, including EMIS, SystmOne, and Vision. This means that practices can easily integrate Patient Partner into their existing systems and workflows without entirely switching to a new system. Patient Partner is also compatible with a wide range of telephone suppliers, ensuring that practices can use their preferred supplier for automated telephone booking.

Automatic Telephone Booking of Vaccine Appointments

Using Patient Partner, practices can set up automated phone lines that patients can call to book vaccine appointments. The system will identify eligible patients based on their age, medical history, and other relevant factors and guide them through the booking process step-by-step. Patients can select a convenient date and time for their appointment, and the system will automatically update the practice’s database with the appointment details. This Patient Partner feature helps practices reach out to eligible patients who may need access to online booking tools or prefer to book appointments over the phone. By automating the booking process, practices can reduce the administrative burden of booking appointments manually and ensure that eligible patients are receiving the vaccines they need to stay healthy and protected.

The Benefits of Cloud-Based Software

One of the key benefits of Patient Partner is that it is a cloud-based solution. This means that practices can access the system from anywhere with an internet connection without worrying about maintaining expensive hardware or software on-premises. Patient Partner also provides automatic updates and backups, ensuring that practices always have access to the latest features and data. In addition to vaccine clinics, Patient Partner offers many features designed to help practices manage their workflows more efficiently. These include appointment scheduling, checking, changing and cancelling, and repeat prescription management. By streamlining processes and reducing administrative burden, Patient Partner helps practices focus on what they do best: providing high-quality patient care. Request a Demo

Conclusion

Patient Partner’s automated phone booking system and vaccine management features are just some of the many ways it helps primary care providers in the UK streamline processes, reduce administrative burden, and meet their GP contract requirements. By making healthcare more accessible and efficient for patients and providers alike, Patient Partner is playing a pivotal role in improving healthcare outcomes in the UK. With its cloud-based software and compatibility with existing clinical databases and telephone suppliers, Patient Partner offers a flexible and user-friendly solution that can be easily integrated into existing workflows. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, practices can rely on Patient Partner to adapt and meet new challenges head-on, ensuring they always provide the best possible care to their patients. In conclusion, Patient Partner’s vaccine management features and automated telephone booking system are essential tools for primary care providers in the UK, helping them meet their GP contract requirements while providing high-quality care to their patients. With its cloud-based software, integration with existing clinical databases and telephone suppliers, and other features, Patient Partner is a valuable asset for practices looking to streamline their workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and improve healthcare outcomes.

Patient Partner ensures patients reach the correct point of care on first contact with NHS practices. The automated system can do so in one of two ways; – Booking the first available appointment – Signposting to relevant external services, on a self-referral basis, such as pharmacies ‘Patients should be offered an assessment of need or signposted to an appropriate service, at first contact with the practice’ – one of the changes listed in the GP contract 2023/24, with a real focus on patient access. This update will no doubt involve an element of automation to enable practices to effectively manage the new requirement.

Automated appointment booking and repeat prescription requests

Patient Partner powered by Voice Connect enables GP practices to offer patients the ability to book, check, change and cancel appointments 24/7 while also signposting to external services if required. The cloud-based software works alongside existing telephone systems as well as all primary clinical databases; EMIS, SystmOne and Vision. This means patient access can be improved upon seamlessly while meeting the GP contract requirements.

Reducing callbacks and improving patient access

Reduce patient callbacks and delayed booking processes. Patient Partner works with your rule book, ensuring the correct appointment is booked the first time around. Not limited to GP appointments alone, the system covers a wide variety of appointment types; – Nurse appointments – Vaccinations – Flu clinics – Smear tests – Self-referral Request a Demo

PCN funding to meet GP contract requirements

PCN funding may be available for Patient Partner and other Voice Connect products, including repeat prescriptions. Working closely with Primary Care Networks, Voice Connect has a successful track record of implementing the Patient Partner solution at scale. As a result, set-up costs and monthly contract amounts may qualify for funding.

QOF QI investment modules

In the coming year, £246 million will be made available to improve the patient experience when contacting their practice and receiving a response within an appropriate period.

It’s a misconception amongst UK practices that online booking, including the NHS app, is set to overtake telephone appointment booking. It is widely reported that call handling is on the rise. The most common method of communication to both primary and secondary NHS facilities remains the phone. This is why automatic appointment booking software providers need to work alongside app and online booking, not compete with them, improving patient access across the board. In terms of functionality, automatic phone booking appointment software has some benefits which are still unavailable to app and online users. – The ability to book multiple or double appointment slots for specific appointment types, such as smear test – Those who are not old enough to use the NHS app can still access the automated telephone appointment booking Working with rules determined by the practice and set by your appointment book, automated telephone booking software often works with your existing phone supplier and clinical database. This provides a streamlined patient booking facility should you wish to change either provider. Automated phone booking covers all appointment types, including; nurse, vaccination, medical reviews and GP and secondary care. Integrating automated appointment software has been proven to reduce calls to the reception team, with some providers also supplying repeat prescription functions. Not only can automation book appointments, but most systems allow patients to check, change and cancel, meaning a reduction in DNAs. To see how automated appointment booking can work for you, request a DEMO today Request a Demo