We are making it easier to book appointments

From 5th November, you will be able to use our new online form to book your appointments online via our website.

This ensures that all patients have equal access to our services, whether you book online, call the practice or visit us, helping you receive the right care at the right time with the right team. 

We encourage everyone who can make an online appointment request via our website to do so, ensuring our phone lines remain available for those who need them. Those unable to use our website can continue to call us at 01293 782057 or visit the practice in person and our reception team will be happy to help you.  

 In preparation for the launch of our new online booking system, please see below a patient explainer video, which talks you through the booking process.

https://vimeo.com/948772217/f3e9d87d1b

Introducing our new improved appointment booking system: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

What is Rapid Health?

Rapid Health is an appointment booking and triage tool approved by the NHS. The system can only be used for patients who are 16 years or over.

Why are we changing things?

We have listened to patient feedback and recognise that access to appointments, including online booking is important to you. With the ever-growing demand within the NHS, we continuously looking at ways we can increase capacity. To achieve this, and ensure patients are receiving the best possible care, we have opted to use the Rapid Health triage tool which will allow us to maximise availability, and ensure patients are seeing the right clinician in the appropriate time frame.

Why can the system not be used to book appointments for under 16s?

The feature for booking appointments for patients under 16 is currently in development, and we will only implement it when it is clinically safe to do so. In the meantime, appointments for under 16s should continue to be made through the Reception team as before.

How do I book an appointment?

Appointments can be booked via our Practice website 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or via our Reception during Practice opening hours. We understand that not all patients are able to do this, and our Receptionists will still be available, on the phone, or in person, to help you.

Why do I need to complete an online questionnaire?

All patients will be asked to answer questions using the online form or via the Reception team when booking their appointment. Your answers help the system find the right appointment for you. This also means the clinician will have the relevant information prior to your appointment, enabling them to have more time to provide quality care to you.

Will I be able to book appointments via Patient Access or the NHS App?

No. You will only be able to book appointments through our website or via Reception. Patients can still access their medical records, test results and prescriptions via their preferred application as before.

My problem is personal, and I only want to tell a GP, what do I do?

The information you provide is saved to your medical records and is reviewed by the clinician during your appointment. If you require our assistance when booking an appointment but want the reason to remain confidential, one of the team can assist you as needed. Every employee at Wayside Medical Practice adheres to our confidentiality policy.

Can I pre-book an appointment?

Yes, once you have completed the online questionnaire, an appointment will be offered to you within an appropriate timeframe. Where appropriate, both telephone and face-to-face consultations will be offered up to two weeks in advance.

 

What if I need a same-day urgent appointment?

If your problem is clinically urgent, the system will offer you same day appointment slots to choose from.

Does this mean that patients who book online get more access to appointments?

No. All appointments that can be booked online can also be booked via the Practice team. The only advantages to booking online is that the system is always available, not just within Practice opening hours and there is no need to queue on the phone.

Can I still see a specific clinician?

Yes, when selecting your appointment, where appropriate, you will get a choice of the clinicians with availability.

Why have I been offered an appointment with this particular Clinician?

We aim to help our Patients to see the right person at the right time, so we will always offer appointments with the most appropriate clinician. Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Associates work within our teams, so you may be offered an appointment with one of these clinicians as appropriate.

I was not offered an appointment, what should I do?

If an appropriate appointment is unavailable on the system, you will be prompted to still submit your request. This will then be reviewed by a clinician and we will be in touch within one working day.

Are all appointments bookable online?

No. Appointments with Nurses, Health Care Assistants and Clinical Pharmacists will need to be booked in the same way as before via Reception. Appointments with all other clinical staff (Doctors, Nurse Practitioner and Physician Associate) will be available to book online.

What if the appointment I need is not showing?

Some appointments cannot be booked online. The following must still be booked through the Practice Reception Teams.

·         Children under the age of 16

·         Nursing appointments (eg. blood tests, cervical screening, vaccinations and injections)

·         Annual reviews (eg. Diabetes, Hypertension, Respiratory)

·         Medication reviews

·         Post natal appointments and baby checks

·         Contraceptive /HRT reviews

·         NHS Health Checks

·         Home visits

Who will book follow up appointments?

The clinician you see will book your follow up appointment if needed.

 

How do I arrange an interpreter/assistance for my appointment?

After booking your appointment, please contact the surgery and inform the Reception team if you require an interpreter or any assistance.

Can we still use the online forms on the Practice website?

Yes, you can continue to use the existing forms for administrative queries such as requests for sick notes, prescriptions for controlled drugs/HRT/contraception, and any other general enquiries. There is also a section on the Rapid health page for administrative queries.

Can I order my prescriptions through this system?

No. This system is purely for booking appointments. You can continue to order your prescriptions via the NHS app, Patient access app, Voice connect phone system or through your pharmacy.

What is the start date for the new appointment booking system?

The launch date is 5th November 2024

Published on 26 September 2024