Your experiences of using eConsult
In June 2024, the three Healthwatch teams in Sussex sought your experiences of using eConsult. Read the results.
What is eConsult?
eConsult is a free online platform that allows you to get help and advice from your NHS GP practice. You can use it to let a GP know about any symptoms you're having, ask a question or follow up about something. This could be either your own health or on behalf of someone you care for.
205 people from across Sussex shared their views with us:
- 34.6% told us eConsult made managing their health Easier/Better, but 29.3% said it made it Harder/Worse and 25.9% About the same.
- The feature most identified as Excellent (24.88%) was ‘Convenience’.
- The feature most identified as Poor was ‘Ease of Use’ (20.98%).
- The most identified change respondents wanted is making eConsult quicker, simpler and easier for users to complete.
Respondents to our poll told us they would like to see:
- Modifying eConsult so it is quicker, simpler and easier for users to complete with improved ‘question flow’ to minimise the number that need answering.
- Increased and more consistent operating hours for eConsult so patients and the public can use the platform at times that suit them, especially working people, rather than those of GP practices.
- Greater promotion of eConsult (and similar platforms) so patients and the public can use it as an alternative to other forms of communication with GP practices.
- Ensure GP practice responses to eConsult are timely and effective and minimise the amount of additional follow-up required by patients and practice staff.
- Improved support to help people use eConsult by providing accessible and clear guidance that helps them use the tool effectively.
