As digital technology improves, many services are able to utilise this to improve efficiency and working practices. Digital technology can be used for virtual communication, which enables colleagues to stay in contact across organisations easily, so that information and learning can be shared. It also enables staff to contact patients and service users in new, innovative ways.
Digital technology may be unfamiliar to much of the workforce, so contained here are support resources for staff to allow you to better understand and utilise digital technology in your services, including guidance on telephone and video consultations.
Guidance for telephone and video consultations
Telephone and video consultations are increasingly being used to allow staff to contact patients and service users from a distance, saving both time. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic and the social distancing restrictions now in place, these virtual consultation methods are particularly beneficial to allow essential services to continue safely. However, conducting consultations in this way can be unfamiliar territory for many.
Here you will find resources providing guidance on how and when to perform virtual consultations, which will be particularly beneficial for all Primary Care colleagues.
There is also a document developed for Care Home professionals which answers relevant questions on facilitating video consultation appointments between clinical staff and Care Home residents. This document is applicable to multiple Care Home settings.
