3 Accepted

NHS England has already commissioned an evaluation of the role of digital tools in primary...

Recommendation
NHS England has already commissioned an evaluation of the role of digital tools in primary care. We recommend that it publishes that evaluation at the earliest opportunity and uses it as a basis to produce clear and consistent guidance on best practice in • Reducing bureaucracy and day-to-day IT administration tasks, including those associated with referrals, routine blood tests, and follow-up appointments. • The use of remote consultations in general practice. This should include guidance on how to approach conversations with patients about remote care, considering that while patients may not necessarily always be able to have a face-to-face appointment, they should have input into the decision and the rationale for any refusal should be transparent and consistent.
Government Response Summary
The government confirms NHS England's evaluation of digital tools in primary care has concluded, and it will publish clear guidance on best practice, including reducing bureaucracy and the use of remote consultations, in due course.
Paragraph Reference
44
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
NHS England has commissioned an evaluation of the role of digital tools in primary care, which has now concluded. NHS England is currently considering the findings of the evaluation and will publish clear and consistent guidance on best practice in due course. This will include guidance on reducing bureaucracy and day-to-day IT administration tasks, including those associated with referrals, routine blood tests, and follow-up appointments, and the use of remote consultations in general practice.
Addressee Bodies
Department of Health and Social Care
Timeline
Recommendation age 4.6 yrs
Report published 06 Jan 2022