Zeitschrift für Forschung und Entwicklung im Bereich Gesundheitserziehung

Meeting the threat of Coronavirus �?? how Haughton Thornley Medical Centres is using Digital technologies to support patients and primary care staff

Abstract

Hannan A

2019-nCoV is a new type of Coronavirus that has quickly become a global health threat impacting on many communities and countries around the world. Healthcare systems are under significant pressures to meet the needs of patients. Haughton Thornley Medical Centres has enabled 71% of all its patient population (just under 13,000 patients) to have full records access and understanding online including what the doctor or nurse have written about them. Through a Partnership of Trust and an explicit consent process, patients and carers are supported to use online services to become active partners in their care, working with staff and clinicians to view their electronic health records using apps such as Evergreen Life PHR and Patient Access and gain a better understanding of their healthcare needs, get appointments online by providing a comprehensive Instant Medical History via Engage Consult, sign-posted to trusted information on the practice-based web portal www.htmc.co.uk, social media including twitter and facebook and offering video consultations. This provides a great opportunity for practices to safely manage patients who may be at risk of coronavirus using online services, maintain confidence in healthcare systems and upskill individuals, families and communities to be educated and change behaviours as we promote happiness and wellness scores to achieve better outcomes for all long after the Coronavirus threat dissipates. We describe how one GP practice in the UK has overcome the fear by educating and implementing online services alongside face to face consultations to maximise trust, safety and quality in healthcare and supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals for cities for 2030.