Online Access

 

Online access is not required by any patients. We understand that many individuals prefer to communicate face-to-face with our reception team; or cannot use apps or websites becuse of different abilities or reduced access to technology. However, for most of our patient population, we find that online access can provide a quicker and easier way to access services provided by our surgery. We encourage the use of online access where possible, but also understand that it isn't ideal for every patient. 

For those who choose not to use online access, the surgery can be accessed as usual via telephone or at the front desk.

Sign up for online access

 

What does this page cover?

We sent out a survey in August 2024 to learn what works and doesn't work in terms of online access. Using the feedback we received, we've created a guide for common questions. Simply choose to read what is relevant to you - use the links below to quickly navigate to a specific question or topic.

Summary

For topics with longer answers, there is also a shorter summary available that will look like this. You can read this first to get a quicker solution, then read the full answer if you need more help.

You can either browse the common questions below, or type in a key word relating to the question you have. For example, if you want to ask "Why does my app keep glitching and breaking?" search for "glitch" or "break".

We've also got in touch with our providers to see how they can improve their services, based on the feedback we received. Thank you for taking the time to help us improve.

 

Which apps are supported?

AppAskFirst iOSDownload on the App Store AndroidGet it on Google Play Online Yes
AppNHS App iOSDownload on the App Store AndroidGet it on Google Play Online Yes
AppPatient Access iOSDownload on the App Store AndroidGet it on Google Play Online Yes
AppBrigstockAndYou Website iOSYes, online AndroidYes, online Online Yes
AppgetUBetter iOSDownload on the App Store AndroidGet it on Google Play Online Yes
AppeRedBook iOSDownload on the App Store AndroidGet it on Google Play Online Yes

Other apps, e.g. MyGP App, are not currently supported by our practice. You may find some features work, but they will not have the full extent of services listed above; nor will you be able to receive support for using them here at the practice at the moment.

What can I use online access for?

ServiceRequesting repeat prescriptions AskFirst  NHS App Yes Patient Access Yes Our Website  How-to 
ServiceAccessing medical records AskFirst  NHS AppYes Patient AccessYes Our Website  How-to 
ServiceAccessing test results AskFirst  NHS AppYes Patient AccessYes Our Website  How-to 
ServiceBooking appointments AskFirstYes NHS App  Patient Access  Our Website  How-to 
ServiceSymptom-checking with instant advice or directions to help AskFirstYes NHS App  Patient Access  Our Website  How-to 
ServiceRequesting sick notes AskFirst  NHS App  Patient Access  Our WebsiteYes How-to 
ServiceSubmitting admin queries AskFirst  NHS App  Patient Access  Our WebsiteYes How-to 
ServicePhysiotherapy self-management Available on the getUBetter app. How-to 
ServiceCompleting my travel questionnaire before going abroad AskFirst  NHS App  Patient Access  Our WebsiteYes How-to 
ServiceAccessing my child's NHS health records Available on the eRedBook app. How-to 
  AskFirst  NHS App  Patient Access  Our Website  How-to 

How do I book an appointment using online access?

Content pending.

I have accessibility needs - how do I use these apps?

Content pending.

Are other languages supported?

Content pending.

The apps are too complicated to use, or it takes too long to get an outcome.

Content pending.

I'm told to wait for a callback with no specific timeframe, but I have other commitments and can't be available indefinitely.

Content pending.

My appointment is too far away from when I need help.

Content pending.

It tells me to call Reception anyway, so why use the app?

Content pending.

I'm told to book an appointment, but I can't.

There are no remaining available appointments.

Content pending.

I have exceeded the number of appointments I'm allowed to book.

Content pending.

I'm told that there are no calls/appointments, but there are.

Content pending.

The app I use regularly malfunctions or glitches.

Content pending.

I'd like to talk to a GP (or a specific person), but I don't have that choice.

Content pending.

Why does AskFirst include so many questions?

Content pending.

AskFirst isn't able to correctly assess my problem.

Content pending.

I need services that aren't included on my app.

Content pending.

Why are there so many different apps?

Content pending.

I'm not able to register or login to my app.

There are multiple users in my household.

Content pending.

I'm missing information, such as an email address or my NHS number.

Content pending.

I struggle remembering my login details.

Try writing down your login details on paper or on your phone. Alternatively, password managers might be something to look into.

A good way to remember login details is to write them down. If you prefer you can do this on a piece of paper. On iPhone, there is a Notes app installed by default, which is a handy way of keeping it accessible. On Android, you can get Google Keep which is a lightweight notes app available in the Play store.

If you’re managing a lot of passwords, password manager apps might be a good option – they are encrypted ways to secure passwords on your devices, often available for free. iOS (iPhone, iPad, etc.) have a default password manager. But there are also third-party options, such as Bitwarden (free for individual users).

Brigstock Medical Practice does not offer support for the options listed above, and we are not sponsored or endorsed by any of them either – these are just points to start for our patients who might need help in where to look. Please choose what works best for you after doing your own research.

I can't find emails (e.g. confirmation or verification emails) from the app I use.

Often, emails can get lost in the spam filter. Mailboxes will often have a separate mailbox for spam, different to the Inbox. Check these first, and if you can’t find it there please contact us for assistance in signing up to one of our supported platforms.

My messages aren't seen/read or I can't see/read messages sent to me.

Content pending.

Twitter Facebook