Use of video group consultations by general practice staff during the COVID-19 pandemic

Scott, Eleanor; Swaithes, Laura; Wynne-Jones, Gwenllian; Finney, Andrew

Abstract

Background: Video group consultations (VGCs) are one approach to delivering care using a virtual platform for a group of patients with the same or similar health conditions. However, little is known about the use and uptake of VGCs in the UK.

Aim: To describe the use and uptake of VGCs by UK general practice staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Method: A cross-sectional design using an online questionnaire. Data analysis adopted the principles of content analysis and demographic data were analysed descriptively.

Findings: A total of 36 participants completed the questionnaire across nine UK regions and representing 36 general practices. A lack of standardisation regarding the use and uptake of VGCs across UK general practices was identified, hindering implementation, scale-up and delivery.

Conclusion: While the VGC model looks promising, further research is needed to demonstrate its use and uptake, developing a more robust evidence base for implementation.

Citation

Scott, E., Swaithes, L., Wynne-Jones, G., & Finney, A. (2024). Use of video group consultations by general practice staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. Primary Health Care, 34(1), https://doi.org/10.7748/phc.2023.e1801

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 21, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Jun 21, 2023
• Publication Date: Jan 30, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jan 30, 2024
• Journal: Primary Health Care
• Print ISSN: 0264-5033
• Electronic ISSN: 2047-900X
• Publisher: RCN Publishing (RCNi)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 34
• Issue: 1
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.7748/phc.2023.e1801
• Keywords: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health; Community and Home Care; Health (social science)
• Publisher URL: https://journals.rcni.com/primary-health-care/evidence-and-practice/use-of-video-group-consultations-by-general-practice-staff-during-the-covid19-pandemic-phc.2023.e1801/full