You can’t stand still when it comes to technology. Twenty years ago, who would have thought we could monitor our heating, have our fridge connected to the internet or keep the kids quiet in the back seat on a long car journey watching a downloaded movie.
Things have changed in health too and the Healthwatch Norfolk team want to find out more about how much of an impact the digital world is having on getting care, as their Research and Project Manager Rachael Green explains…
For many of us, life without our smartphone, tablet or digital device is unthinkable.
But how much do you use it when it comes to healthcare? We are keen to find out.
Do you book an appointment using your doctor’s surgery website, or check your health information regularly on the NHS app?
What about if you need a repeat prescription? Do you use an app to order those?
At Healthwatch Norfolk, we have been asked to find out your experiences (good or bad) about GP practice website, your surgery’s app if they have one, and the NHS app.
We will also be talking to medical professionals to get their views as well.
It is part of a larger study we are carrying out around how easy it is to access NHS ‘front door’ services likes GPs, dentists, and pharmacies digitally.
We will then analyse what everyone tells us and feed back our recommendations to health and care leaders.
So how do you let us know what you think?
You can complete our survey at HERE.
Or you can phone us if you prefer on 0808 168 9669.
We want to understand what you are using, what works well, and where there could be improvements.
Some people might also be nervous about using their phone or computer to access care. Some great sessions and projects are going in some surgeries and in Norfolk’s libraries to help patients, but it would be great if we could understand what other help or support people might need.
We look forward to hearing from people whether they use a digital or a non-digital option to get in touch.
