How can I send consultation notes back to a patients NHS GP?

Why Share Consultation Notes?

There’s a significant benefit in sharing private consultation notes with a patient’s NHS GP. Primarily, it’s all about ensuring continuity of care. When a patient’s NHS GP has access to the most recent updates, it allows for an integrated and comprehensive healthcare journey. Picture this: a private consultation reveals critical insights or recommendations, and by keeping the NHS circle informed, it ensures that any future encounters with NHS services are informed and up-to-date.

“Continuity of care is cornerstone for healthcare excellence” – a principle well-understood by the experienced GPs of the NHS.

How Can I Send Notes Back to a Patient's NHS GP?

When it comes to logistics, clarity is key. If you’re using EMIS Web, an electronic healthcare record system, there’s a nifty feature known as Consultation Write Back, which allows private GPs to load their notes directly into the NHS GP system. It requires a sharing arrangement, but it’s seamless and efficient.

For many private practices, Docman Connect proves invaluable. It lets you send important documents straight into the NHS workflow using MESH, similar to how pathology results are shared. Both of these methods ensure documentation is handled professionally and securely.

Alternatives Worth Considering

If EMIS or Docman isn’t on your radar, NHS Mail stands as a trusted alternative for secure communication. Simply send an email directly to the patient's NHS GP using this secure system. Egress Email is another choice, widely respected for its encryption capabilities, ensuring your notes are securely transported over the airwaves.

Preparation Is Key

Before sending any notes, remember the golden rule: obtain consent. Ensuring your patient is comfortable with sharing their medical information is crucial. Once consent is secured, make sure your notes are detailed yet concise, outlining the key points of discussion and any follow-ups or prescribed treatments. This way, the NHS GP can seamlessly pick up where you left off, providing uninterrupted care to the patient.

By harnessing these tools and approaches, private GPs can effortlessly maintain collaborative healthcare with NHS services, focusing on patient safety and care quality.