This excellent study recognises the growing interest in using video consultation with specific patient cohorts and in specific circumstances.1 It can be a change for the good, but only if done for the right reasons. The technology needs to evolve, although there are some caveats about the experience described above. Notably, many practices are seeing the benefits of combining telephony and video traffic using the same ‘pipe’, avoiding the need for Wi-Fi upgrades. For others, the arrival of HSCN removes the old N3 connectivity issues. Video can now be played directly into modern browsers, reducing the need for additional downloads.
GPs should be able to switch between phone and video consultation quickly and easily, via their phone, laptop, or other mobile devices, and do so in a way that is familiar to the patient. Resultant conversations should be associated with the patient’s record to inform clinical and administrative decision making. Connectivity should not be a barrier to efficient communication.
Many practices are recognising that this is not about choosing one form of communication over another; it is about choosing the right form of communication at the time. Phone, video, and face-to-face consultations can work together, if the right approach is taken.
- © British Journal of General Practice 2019
