Dear Patients,
We are delighted to introduce PATCHS, an innovative online consultation system, at Barlow Medical Centre, commencing Wednesday 6th December 2023. This digital platform is easy-to-use, and promises a more efficient and convenient way to access medical care and advice. It will greatly improve your ability to contact us in a convenient way, and should therefore significantly reduce the pressure on the telephone lines.
Getting Started with PATCHS
PATCHS requires patients register with them, and so we highly recommend registering in advance of our launch date of Wednesday 6th December. You can easily do this via the NHS App using your NHS Login. If you’re not already registered with NHS Login, you can sign up here, and we highly recommend this as there are many benefits to having the NHS App far beyond PATCHS. Alternatively, you can register directly through PATCHS here or through the banner on our practice website at www.barlowmed.com when we go live.
How PATCHS Works
Once registered, simply select ‘Ask your GP for Medical Advice’ in the NHS App or ‘Contact My GP Practice’ via the PATCHS banner on our website. PATCHS will guide you through a few straightforward questions about your health concern, ensuring we understand your needs. It can also be used for more administrative needs, such as updating your details, medication queries or requesting a report.
Why Use PATCHS?
- Efficiency: No more waiting in telephone queues.
- Convenience: Easy access to our healthcare services via your phone or computer
- Flexibility: Request health advice, fit notes, medication, and more.
- Inclusivity: Ideal for patients with hearing or speech impairments, anxiety, or language barriers (PATCHS includes a translation service)
Available Times
Initially, PATCHS will be available from 7.00am to 10.00am every weekday for access to our GPs for new or ongoing health problems; administrative queries (e.g. prescription issues) will be available all day. We will keep you updated on any changes to these hours.
What Happens After 10am?
When the clinical forms (New or Ongoing Health Problem) aren’t available, for example after 10am, then you should contact the practice in the usual way by calling 0161 445 9000. Please note PATCHS will not be available outside of practice opening hours. In the event that you have an urgent health problem outside our opening hours you should call 111 as usual, or 999 in an emergency.
Need More Help?
If you encounter any issues registering or using PATCHS, or if you need assistance, please contact our reception at 0161 445 9000, or alternatively pop into reception and we will be glad to help.
More Information on PATCHS
For a visual guide on accessing PATCHS, watch this helpful video.
Alternatively, if you prefer to read more about PATCHS you can do so here.
Your health and convenience are our top priorities. We look forward to offering you this enhanced service and are here to assist you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
Barlow Medical Centre