Patients now view a digital first approach towards GP services as the status quo.
This is according to Dr Suba M, medical director at Aviva, (pictured) who spoke to Health & Protection for our analysis earlier this month exploring the implications of soaring use of virtual GPs.
Dr Suba M also told Health & Protection that while NHS waiting lists and the Strep A health scare last Christmas had contributed to increased usage of virtual GPs, positive experiences around use of such services mean patients are more likely to opt to use them again.
“Our data around usage rates shows that when an individual uses the service for the first time and experiences how convenient and effective it is, they will opt to use it again,” Dr Suba M explained.
“In fact 58% of individuals booking an Aviva Digital GP consultation in the last 12 months were repeat users of the service.
Status quo
“While the private sector has seen a higher uptake of Digital GP services than the NHS, with NHS services being digitised, people now view the digital first approach as the status quo,” she continued.
“We believe that the pandemic has simply accelerated consumer acceptance of digital healthcare. As more individuals experience the benefits of a digital route, demand will continue to rise.
“With the upward trends in repeat usage that we are seeing with Aviva Digital GP as well as increased registrations, demand is showing no signs of slowing.”