People in Guernsey could soon make ‘virtual’ appointments with their doctor through an app.
The ‘Care Passport” is something the Health and Social Care Committee is looking into as part of its wide-ranging health reforms.
It sees technology, and digital solutions to a range of issues, as being central to its plans.
The Care Passport app would include a personalised guide to all the healthcare a person is entitled to as part of Guernsey’s healthcare system, but could also be used as a savings account for people who want to save up for future additional treatments without needing to take out private health insurance.
Politicians are also monitoring pilots in the UK of virtual GP appointments. They note around 20% of GP appointments do need to happen face-to-face, but a whole range of queries can be dealt with remotely, speeding up waiting times for patients, and increasing efficiency for primary care providers.
Describing its plans for an app in a letter to the States, the Health and Social Care Committee headed by Deputy Heidi Soulsby said: “The app will also include general information about health and care services in the Bailiwick, and guidance on managing one’s health and wellbeing.”
“The Committee will explore whether it would be possible for such an app to interface with established lifestyle applications in order to support health improvement strategies.”
You can read the complete plan, which is due to be debated by the States, here.
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