Since Wednesday 10 January 2024, we are operating a total triage system, where every request for a GP appointment is triaged by our GP team.
To request a doctors appointment we are asking all our patients to use an online form where possible.
If you find it difficult to use a computer or a smartphone, you can telephone our reception on 020 8669 6186 or attend in person and our receptionists will fill out the form on your behalf. Our reception staff are not able to book an appointment with a GP directly.
Whilst our phone lines will still be open, if you do call the surgery we will politely request that you complete an online form. If your personal circumstances mean that it is impossible for you to do this, or for someone you know to complete the form on your behalf, our Care Navigators team will assist you with this.
The form is brief, and will ask you the following questions:
- What your query is about
- What action you would like
- Your preference for who or when you would like to deal with your problem.
- You will be invited to submit photos if relevant.
You will be able to submit a form between 8am – 6.30pm (Monday to Friday).
All forms will be screened by a GP on the same day.
You can watch a video about how to submit your form here: Patient Flash Demo: How to submit a medical request in Patient Triage – YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after my form is submitted?
- Administrative tasks will be dealt with by our Care Navigator or Admin Teams in the usual way.
- Clinical queries are screened by the doctor and categorised according to urgency of need. We have appointments available within different time frames, including on the same day. Our patient support team will contact you to arrange an appointment.
- We may organise some investigations for you while you are waiting to be seen.
- It may be possible to deal with your problem directly without the need to see a clinician. Alternatively, you may receive advice about self care or other services you can refer yourself to.
Why has Wallington Family Practice decided to change to this system?
Experience of using this system in other Practices has shown us that patients receive a much more efficient service and feedback from patients has been excellent.
They have also been able to significantly reduce waiting times to see a clinician by more effective use of appointments.
The modern general practice team is increasingly multidisciplinary and it is more important than ever that the right problem is seen by the right person. Having a doctor screening triaging the forms allows us to do this more accurately, safely and efficiently.
How has Wallington Family Practice consulted with patients about the change?
We called a meeting of the Patient Participation Group on Thursday 09 November 2023 to discuss the Total Triage System.
All registered patients have received a text message informing them of the change. We will be conducting a Patient Survey post change to measure patients’ satisfaction and to adjust the system if needed.
What if my problem is urgent?
You should still submit an online form. Please do so as early as possible on the day to ensure your problem can be dealt with by our duty team.
Can I request a prescription using the online form?
Yes, though for simple repeat prescriptions please use the usual ordering method on your NHS app.
What if I don’t have access to the internet?
We have installed a tablet in reception with free Wi-Fi. You are also welcome to use our Wi-Fi with your own device.
What if a patient does not speak English?
We understand that it can be difficult for non-English speaking patients to access care, and we have no wish to make this harder. If possible, please ask a friend or family member to complete the form, or consider using an online translation tool such as google translate. If these options are not possible our Care Navigators team will assist you with an interpreter if necessary.
What if a patient is housebound, elderly, or not able to use online systems?
We will work hard to recognise vulnerable patients who cannot be expected to use the online form (though we would still encourage family members and carers to use the form on the patient’s behalf as it is a very useful way of communicating with the surgery). These patients will still be able to speak to our patient support team who will complete a form on their behalf.
If you have a specific need that we have not recognised please discuss this with the Care Navigators or with the clinician at your next appointment.