Supporting patients to use online services in general practice: focused ethnographic case study

In England online services in general practice encompass a range of provision from ordering repeat medication to having a consultation. Some groups of individuals may find accessing and/or using such services difficult and may require 'digital facilitation', that is the range of processes, procedures, and personnel which seeks to support NHS patients in their uptake and use of online services.

To gain insight, from the perspective of general practice staff and patients/carers, into how and why digital facilitation might lead to benefits, and the key processes involved in supporting patients to use online services.

Eight general practices across England with varied geographical and sociodemographic characteristics were included in the study.

This was a focused ethnographic case study of observations and interviews (N = 69).

Typically, digital facilitation was delivered in an ad hoc fashion to individual patients. Online services were delivered via multiple systems each working differently and creating a need for support so that patients could access them. Younger practice staff were expected to deliver support on account of their age, despite there being no evidence of age-related training and experience. It was understood by practice staff that patients with challenging personal circumstances may require specific support to access online services.

At present patient use of online services is supported by digital facilitation that is primarily delivered by reception staff. Supporting patients to use online services requires review of how many services are provided and what for, and consideration for the time and effort needed to support patients to use them.