We all know how overly busy the NHS is and how difficult it is to get an appointment. Even though I work at AFP and have life insurance with AIG I have never thought to use the online doctor facility until Gary suggested it today. To be honest I thought it would be too much faff. It was amazing and simple, and I want to share my experience with you.
I logged into the SmartHealth site yesterday afternoon (Friday) and chose my appointment time to suit me. They have 3-hour time slots rather than a specific time so I chose 9.00-12.00 the following morning (Saturday) although I could have had a slot starting an hour after I booked it. I could have a video call or a phone call. I chose the phone call. I wrote a brief description of my issue and uploaded a referral letter from my physio that was sent to my doctor 4 months ago. You can also upload photos if you want to.
The doctor rang me at 9.03 Saturday morning, had loads of time to give me, was very patient and very nice. My issue is an ongoing one that I’ve been waiting for advice from the GP for about a year, but you can also use this for a cough, sore throat – anything you would go to your own GP for. If you need a prescription they arrange for it to be waiting for you at a pharmacy of your choice. It’s that simple.
With my issue, the AIG doctor has e-mailed me an orthopaedic referral letter, which I received by e-mail 5 minutes after the call ended. And the best bit? I’m paying for this already with my AIG life insurance. It’s not just about claiming the money when you have to… it’s ongoing care to try to prevent the big payout too early.