How do video appointments work as a private general practitioner?

Private GP video appointments

Before you begin to offer video consultations to your patients, make sure you follow these top tips:

Top tips for private GP video appointments

• Ensure the software you use is secure: Always prioritise patient confidentiality by selecting reliable and secure video consultation software. Popular choices like WebEx can offer the security needed, and it’s also worth exploring solutions that integrate with systems like EMIS for a seamless experience.
• Record video consultations: If your software provides the capability, consider recording consultations for your records. However, ensure this aligns with legal advice and patient consent.
• Software compliance: Verify that the software used complies with data protection regulations to safeguard patient information.
• Patient instructions: Provide clear instructions to your patients on how to access the video consultation. For example, sending an email with a detailed guide and a unique link they can use to join the session.
• Maintain privacy: Conduct video appointments with the same level of privacy as you would for in-person visits, choosing a quiet and secure location for your consultation.

How does a patient join their video appointment?

At a designated time before the appointment, you can email your patient a joining link. This will be a unique link for them which they can access via a computer, tablet or mobile phone.

This link will take them to your platform of choice where they can enter their details. You will be notified that the patient has joined the appointment and you can join at the allotted appointment time.

It is important to note that both yourself and the patient will need to give permission for your camera and microphone on the device to be used.

"Video appointments have worked really well for both me and my patients. If patients are feeling unwell, they can see a GP from the comfort of their own home, which has also been beneficial with COVID cases as to not spread the infection.”

Private GP

How do I know video appointments are secure?

Due to the nature of private GP appointments, you need to ensure that the software you use is secure. We recommend you use solutions like WebEx, known for their robust security measures. Applications like WebEx ensure that your video consultations are protected by creating unique links and ensuring strong encryption.

Before you decide which software to use, make sure you fully read their security policies.

Further resources

• NHS principles for video GP consultations
• CQC guidance on video consultations