20.03.18
NHS England could delay rollout of digital GP app
The NHS is to commission an independent review of the innovative GP at Hand app.
The app, run by health provider, Babylon, allows patients to have video consultations with GPs in practices based in Hammersmith and Fulham, London.
However, further rollout could be delayed as NHS Hammersmith and Fulham CCG, with their partners NHS England (London Region) and NHS England, are inviting tenders for an independent evaluation of the platform.
The evaluation will consider the wider policy implications of the GP at Hand model.
Previously the Royal College of GPs has expressed concerns that the app could put additional pressure on GPs by allowing younger, healthier patients to be “cherry picked” by the practices using the app, while those with more complex needs continuing to use the traditional GP practices.
The review will be funded by NHS England, and will be overseen by the GP at Hand Evaluation Group, a subcommittee of the Hammersmith and Fulham primary care commissioning committee.
The winner of the contract will be expected to provide an interim report by 21 October 2018, with a final report by 31 March 2019.
Top image: Sitthiphong
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